Warriors could deal former first-round pick to Hornets in mutually beneficial move

As the Golden State Warriors search for an answer to fill their center spot, one potential option could involve moving on from a top-10 NBA draft pick. 

For years, the Warriors have struggled to find a reliable center they can trust -- rotating between Kevon Looney, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and even Draymond Green. 

In 2022 they managed to win the championship with a combination of that trio, but one thing now is different. Their team has gotten older, and the performances of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green are nowhere near what they used to be.

In the past few seasons, Jonathan Kuminga’s minutes have fluctuated, and we have even seen some DNPs due to Steve Kerr’s coaching. The addition of Jimmy Butler has limited the 22-year-old's role, and it may be time they move on while they can.

One potential target that could fit the Warriors' need for a big man would be Charlotte Hornets' Mark Williams, someone who has been involved in trade rumors, and even dealt to the Lakers before it was rescinded due to a failed physical this past trade deadline. 

Kuminga has shown tons of flashes as a potential hyper-athletic forward during his tenure with the Warriors, averaging 11.2 ppg on 51.3% from the field in his career, and 15.3 ppf this year. Williams on the other hand, would act as a great rim protector and force in the paint for the Warriors with career averages of 9.4 ppg, 7.4 rpg, and 1.4 bpg in just 22 minutes of game time.

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Pairing Jonathan Kuminga alongside the backcourt of LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller could be exactly what the team needs as they progress in their rebuild. 

The former 7th overall pick should be yearning for a real opportunity after his minutes have been limited despite a great start to this season.

A deal centered around Kuminga for Williams would finally give the Warriors an answer at the center spot and give the Hornets another piece to add to their young core. 

Whether each side would be willing to pull the trigger remains the biggest question. 

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