Warriors favor Nikola Vucevic, Myles Turner trade scenarios

The The Golden State Warriors are intensifying their search for frontcourt help before the Feb. 6 trade deadline, prioritizing players like Nikola Vucevic Chicago Bulls and Miles Turner Indiana Pacers. According to NBA insider Brett Siegel, the Warriors have expanded their list of trade targets in an attempt to solidify their roster for the playoffs.

Reports indicate that the Warriors are no longer looking for complementary wing players, such as the Brooklyn Nets’ Cameron Johnson or the Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler, who have been involved in trade speculation. Instead, the team shifted its focus entirely to bolstering the frontcourt, identifying several key candidates for potential trades.

Nikola Vucevic, Myles Turner are emerging as major trade targets to upgrade the Warriors’ frontcourt

Vucevic, a two-time All-Star, is one of the most sought-after big men on the market. The 14-year veteran is having a breakout season for the Bulls, averaging 20.1 points, 10.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game while shooting a career-high 55.6% from the field and 42.2 % out of three. Despite his stellar performance, the Bulls are 18-23.

Acquisition Vucevic would probably need significant funds. His $20 million contract this season and the $21.4 million he is owed in 2025-26 set him up as a valuable addition and financial liability. NBA managers believe it may take a first-round pick to acquire him, though the Warriors have shown reluctance to part with such draft capital.

Turner, another priority target, offers a strong defensive presence with his shot-blocking ability. The nine-year NBA veteran is currently averaging 15.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, two blocks and 1.5 assists per game while shooting 49.1% from the field and a career-high 40.4% from three. Turner is in the final year of his two-year, $40.9 million contract and has earned $19.2 million this season.

Turner’s ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim fits Golden State’s needs, making him ideal for Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. However, his expiring contract could complicate negotiations as the Pacers weigh their options ahead of the deadline.

Other trade opportunities for the Dubs before the Feb. 6 deadline

The Warriors also considered other frontcourt players, such as Chris Boucher and Kelly Olynyk of the Toronto Raptors. Meanwhile, Siegel noted that the team has expressed a lot of interest in Nick Richards before the big man was traded to the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday in exchange for Josh Okogie and three second-round picks.

Despite the urgent need to upgrade, Golden State remains wary of parting ways with key assets. Siegel emphasized that the Warriors are hesitant to include Jonathan Cummings in any trade discussions. The team is also wary of sacrificing a future first-round pick, focusing instead on taking advantage of expiring contracts and second-round picks to land a key player.

The Golden State Warriors, currently 20-20 and ranked 11th in the Western Conference, are facing increasing pressure to strengthen their roster. With their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, prioritizing high-impact frontcourt players like Vucevic or Turner has become essential.

As the Feb. 6 trade deadline approaches, the Warriors must balance their immediate need for reinforcements with their long-term goals. While Vucevic and Turner are top priorities, the reluctance to part with significant assets reflects Golden State’s commitment to maintaining flexibility going forward. The decisions made in the coming weeks will play a key role in shaping their playoff chances and the trajectory of the franchise.