Warriors trade pitch cuts ties with Jimmy Butler and brings in one of the best players of this era

It was another rather disappointing season for the Golden State Warriors, an organization that's used to winning NBA championships. I don't want to say that any season that doesn't end in a championship for the Warriors at this stage should be viewed as a disappointment, but most fans would probably see it that way. 

The Warriors still have some very good talent, as well as a superstar in Stephen Curry, who's only getting older. That's something that the Warriors will have to figure out this offseason, and they need to give Curry another chance to win a championship.

It's uncertain who the Warriors could even go after at this point, as there isn't a guarantee that anybody will be available star-wise in a trade this offseason until it happens, but some have floated the idea that Kawhi Leonard is one of the players who could be. 

Leonard, still one of the better players in the NBA, wouldn't require the same type of haul that the Warriors would have to give up in comparison to somebody like Giannis Antetokounmpo, if he becomes available.

Golden State Warriors Receive: Leonard

Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Jimmy Butler, Will Richard, 2028 first-round pick, 2030 first-round pick swap

“The Warriors’ angle is simple. They just went 37-45, ranked 18th in offensive rating, 17th in defensive rating, and 20th in net rating. That is not a roster that needs another small tweak. That is a roster that needs a sharper top-end fit around Stephen Curry before facing the Suns in the Play-In,” Fran Leiva wrote.

Giving up two first-round picks plus Butler wouldn't be ideal for the Warriors, but it might be what has to happen to land a player of his caliber. Frankly, however, I'd be a bit surprised to see the Warriors want to get rid of two picks, Butler, and then a young player in Richard.

More NBA news:

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• Miami Heat among three teams linked to LeBron James in what would be a reunion for the ages
• LeBron James and Stephen Curry connection viewed as strong, and it could create new duo for Warriors
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