Change is Coming to California

But maybe not in the way many anticipated.

In a surprising turn of events, the Warriors have traded for Kristaps Porzingis from the Hawks, sending Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield the other way.

Now, raise your hand if you actually saw this coming. Yeah, I thought so.

For weeks, Warriors fans have been excited about the possibility of acquiring former MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. The idea of pairing him with Stephen Curry and a returning Jimmy Butler next season seemed like the perfect way to extend their dynasty, potentially giving Curry a few more chances at another title.

There was also chatter about Draymond Green possibly being traded to Milwaukee. Fans weren’t thrilled at the thought of him heading to the Lakers with LeBron James and Luka Doncic, but many believed it might happen.

But in the end, all that speculation turned out to be meaningless. Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. decided to go a different route, trading away two players who weren’t getting much playing time for an all-NBA talent.

So now, we’re trading one kind of uncertainty for another. Hield, frankly, was more of a salary cap filler than anything else.

As for Kuminga, his time with the Warriors has been, well, dramatic. Drafted seventh overall in 2021, his journey in the Bay Area has been anything but smooth. There were glimpses of potential, but inconsistency kept him from really shining. He struggled to meet the expectations set by Dunleavy and coach Steve Kerr.

After a summer of tough contract discussions, Kuminga’s camp sought a trade. Dunleavy was quick to address the trade rumors.

“We recognize the demand,” he said. “If he wants a trade, we’re open to that, but we need to do what’s best for the organization.”

So, Kuminga left. And in his wake, another question arose.

Porzingis could be the perfect fit alongside Curry, Green, and Butler. Standing at 7-2 and capable of hitting threes, he seems like an ideal match for Kerr’s motion offense. He also brings defensive prowess, making him a valuable addition—if he can stay healthy.

That is the big question, though. Will Porzingis be able to contribute consistently?

He missed a significant portion of the last season with the Celtics due to health issues and has struggled this year with left Achilles tendonitis, playing only 17 games. However, reports suggest he might be ready to return soon.

If he’s fit, his scoring ability could be a game-changer. When Boston won the title two years ago, he averaged over 20 points and shot nearly 38 percent from beyond the arc. The year prior, he recorded even better stats with Washington.

If Porzingis can stay on the court, this move could rival the last trade deadline when Dunleavy was successfully acquired for Butler.

With a core lineup of Curry, Green, Butler, and Porzingis, they certainly have the talent to contend with any team in the Western Conference. But questions remain—especially with Butler sidelined after tearing his ACL.

Ultimately, this was a smart decision for the Warriors. Turning two bench players into a starting-caliber one is a win. And even if the Porzingis deal doesn’t pan out, his contract expires after this season, giving Golden State some flexibility.

Could this lead to Curry’s fifth ring? Only time will tell, but at least the Warriors are making moves, even if they weren’t the ones fans anticipated.