The Golden State Warriors have turned their fortunes around with a strong fourth quarter performance to defeat the Phoenix Suns led by Kevin Durant, ending a three-game losing streak and improving their win rate to over 50%, currently ranking tenth in the Western Conference. The Suns, on the other hand, have dropped to eleventh place after two consecutive losses. Devin Booker is still battling a groin injury, Royce O'Neal suffered an ankle sprain during the game, and Jusuf Nurkic has been suspended for three games due to fighting, leaving the Suns' future in question. However, while some are worried, Houston Rockets General Manager Rafael Stone is quietly celebrating, as they hold the right to swap first-round picks with the Suns. Based on current rankings, this pick is likely to enter the top ten, allowing the Rockets management to continue searching for talent in the draft. With 2025 being a big year for the draft, the eighth son of the Rockets is about to emerge.
Recently, American media outlet "NBA Analysis" has suggested that the Dallas Mavericks should pursue Golden State Warriors' All-Star small forward Andrew Wiggins before the trade deadline. The media has provided a three-team trade proposal involving the Mavericks and Warriors, with the Rockets participating as the third party. If negotiations go smoothly, Klay Thompson could be sent to Houston as part of the deal. The specific trade plan is as follows:
- The Mavericks send Klay Thompson + Maxi Kleber + their 2031 first-round pick to acquire Andrew Wiggins.
- The Rockets send Jeff Green + Jock Landale + their 2026 second-round pick from the Clippers to acquire Klay Thompson.
- The Warriors send Andrew Wiggins to receive Jeff Green + Jock Landale + Maxi Kleber + one future first-round pick + one future second-round pick.
Wiggins has been the most consistent player for the Warriors this season, averaging 17 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 28.7 minutes per game, with a shooting percentage of 45% and a three-point percentage of 42.4%. Unlike Klay Thompson's attribute of being stronger offensively but weaker defensively, Wiggins has shown a more balanced performance on both ends of the court. After Klay's departure this season, he has taken on more offensive responsibilities without compromising his defensive efforts. As Curry's age increases and his form declines, head coach Steve Kerr relies more on Wiggins' stable performance. However, the overall decline in the Warriors' strength is undeniable, especially with only four wins in the last 16 regular-season games. Schroder's addition has not fundamentally changed the team's situation, making rebuilding a serious consideration for general manager Bob Myers.
Klay Thompson is averaging 14.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 27.4 minutes per game this season, with a three-point shooting percentage of 38.5%. He is one of the most threatening outside shooters in the league, capable of taking shots with minimal space and almost no preparation time. While the Rockets have performed well this season, their lack of outside shooting has been exposed. Klay's addition would provide head coach Udoka with more tactical options and enhance the team's outside offensive firepower. Even if he cannot enter the starting lineup, he can still shine in the bench squad. For the Mavericks, Klay's mobility has been significantly affected after undergoing major knee surgery. This has caused head coach Jason Kidd to use him cautiously, especially in critical moments of the game, where it is difficult to keep three defensively weak players like Doncic, Irving, and Klay on the court at the same time. Wiggins does not have such issues; he often plays the role of a defensive specialist for the Warriors and can alleviate the defensive pressure on the Doncic-Irving duo.
All opinions are based on authoritative American media and are for reference only. Click to follow and be the first to recommend fans.