Warriors-Wizards trade pitch sends rarely available $186 million ex-Lakers star to Golden State

Are the Golden State Warriors desperate to find an elite co-star for Stephen Curry in 2026-27?

Absolutely, but will they be willing to go so far as to target rarely available contributors who are only dominant for short periods due to injuries? Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley thinks so, even taking the time to construct a blockbuster Warriors-Washington Wizards trade idea that would land Golden State a former Los Angeles Lakers superstar.

“The Warriors seemingly don't have the stomach to place an all-in wager on Giannis Antetokounmpo—which, frankly, might not be enough to get him, anyway—but how about a half-in gamble on (Anthony) Davis,” Buckley wrote Saturday.

“They need the kind of size, strength, and interior protection he'd provide. Plus, he might be the perfect recruiter to grant their LeBron James wish in free agency.”

“A core featuring Davis, James, Steph Curry and Draymond Green would be ancient and riddled with availability risks, but it feels like that description will fit the Dubs regardless who they add to this roster. If they could just get everyone to the finish line, though, they'd be a terrifying playoff matchup or even a shadow contender for the crown.”

Buckley’s trade proposal would send the No. 11 pick, Jimmy Butler, and a 2030 first-round pick swap (21-30 protected) to the Wizards for Davis. Pairing Curry with arguably the biggest wild card on the trade market is unlikely to pay dividends for the championship-craving Western Conference franchise. 

Davis contributed 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game with the Dallas Mavericks and Wizards this season. The problem? The Kentucky product was more of a spectator than an active NBA contributor, appearing in only 20 total contests. 

Davis’ health concerns date back to his eventful stint with the Lakers, as it reached a point where Los Angeles’ fan base felt the need to hold their breath every time the 10-time All-Star hit the deck. 

If the Warriors were wise, they would prioritize acquiring Davis this summer.

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