Warriors May Be Willing to Trade Draymond to Land Giannis

When Jimmy Butler tore his ACL, everyone wondered what the Warriors would do. They have over $50 million dollars committed to him for next season, and he likely won’t even be able to play until halfway through it. On top of that, he’s the second-oldest player in NBA history to tear an ACL. Butler’s ability to return to star-level play is a big question mark. 

NBA reported Nick Friedell recently reported on the chances that Golden State decides to trade Butler and avoid the unknown of his return from injury. 

“The question for Dunleavy and the front office becomes: Are they willing to stick with Butler throughout a lengthy rehab or use him as a contract match to help smoothly get an Antetokounmpo deal over the finish line? Even in recent days, one league source said the Warriors have made it clear to Jimmy Butler that they are going to stick by him as he begins a year-long rehab. But actions, as always, will speak louder than words — especially if the Bucks are motivated to move Antetokounmpo before the deadline and the Warriors are steadfast in not including Butler as part of a package.”

If the Warriors aren’t willing to put Butler in the deal, but are deadset on making a big offer for Giannis, that may only mean one thing: Draymond Green is available in trade talks. 

It’s nearly impossible to create a Warriors-Giannis trade without Draymond or Butler being involved. So, if the Warriors are telling Butler the truth that they aren’t going to trade him while he rehabs, then Draymond Green may be on the trade block. This would be a huge decision for the Warriors as Draymond has been a pillar of their organization for more than a decade.