The Golden State Warriors, at 4-1, are one of the very best teams in the NBA to start the young season. Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler appear to be beating Father Time, and the Warriors look primed to go on a deep run.
Of course, injuries pile up, and Golden State would be smart to insulate its roster with talent who can step up in the event of ill health. The Warriors have been linked to Lauri Markkanen, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and even Klay Thompson. They boast enough draft picks to land a reasonable star, but that hasn’t stopped speculation from running rampant.
Should the Warriors target a star, it would have to be to address their rebounding. Even after adding Al Horford this summer, Golden State ranks 23rd in rebounds per game. On top of that, they are 24th in blocks and allow the ninth-most points in the paint per game.
Adding an anchor down low could be a priority, but are they willing to swing for the fences?
GettySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 02: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors is guarded by Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at Chase Center on January 02, 2025 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors Linked to Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid, when healthy, is one of the very best players in the NBA. He is elite on both ends of the floor and, in theory, would solve any and all of the Warriors’ issues.
The only problem is that he hasn’t been healthy since early 2024.
Still, a foursome of Curry, Butler, Green, and Embiid would be one of the best groupings in the NBA.
“With the roster looking much different and Father Time playing a factor, they may need a center with a bigger presence,” wrote The Sporting News’ Tyler Rourke. “Joel Embiid happens to be easing back into his role with the Philadelphia 76ers, and may be the perfect option for the Dubs.”
However, as Rourke notes, the deal wouldn’t be perfect for Golden State. Embiid will make $55.2 million this season, and even more in the years after that. Only by including both Green and Jonathan Kuminga could Golden State field a deal.
Of course, a healthy Embiid is better than both players combined, although losing Green would be a tough pill for the Dubs to swallow.
Why Warriors Should Pass on Any Deal
Golden State has played five games so far, looking mostly fantastic. As of now, the Warriors don’t really need anything, and Embiid is more of a headache than he’s worth.
If Embiid gets healthy before the trade deadline, the Sixers will have very real title chances. Would they be willing to give it up for Green, Kuminga, and Moses Moody? Probably not. On the other hand, if he doesn’t get healthy, will the Warriors be willing to part with two of their better players? Absolutely not!
It’s far too early in the season for teams to properly evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Of course, with Horford’s limitations, the Warriors would be smart to target a center.
Embiid currently has the same limitations as Horford and makes $48 million more per season. Chasing Embiid wouldn’t be a smart move for the Warriors to make, especially not while they’re cruising.
Maybe we can come back to this in a few months.
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