Warriors GM Discusses Trade Moves Following Deadline
Golden State Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. addressed the media Saturday for the first time after the NBA trade deadline. During that period, the team made a strong effort to acquire superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks, though those talks ultimately did not result in a deal.
Dunleavy clarified that the pursuit of Antetokounmpo did not hinder other trade negotiations. He expressed enthusiasm about the Warriors’ plan to acquire Kristaps Porzingis in a deal that will send Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield to Atlanta.
Despite Porzingis only playing in 17 games this season due to health issues, including orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and left Achilles tendonitis, he is anticipated to make his debut with the Warriors after the All-Star break. Dunleavy conveyed a hopeful outlook regarding Porzingis’s potential to maintain his health with the team in 2024.
“We feel good about it,” Dunleavy stated. “We looked into it pretty closely. We trust our medical staff. There are no guarantees, but considering his current status and history, we’re optimistic.”
He also pointed out that trading Kuminga, who has had challenges staying on the court, presents an understandable risk. “We recognize the medical risks, but it’s one we’re willing to take.”
The Warriors were disappointed not to land Antetokounmpo, who they hoped could extend Stephen Curry’s championship window. A notable element of the trade deadline was Draymond Green’s name coming up in discussions about the Bucks’ star.
Dunleavy firmly denied that Green was ever really up for trade. “His name wasn’t in any real conversations besides teams asking about him, which happens every year,” he explained. “So, the suggestion that he was going to be traded is exaggerated. I assured him that his place was secure here.” He acknowledged that the media creates a different narrative that can affect players, and he believes it threw Green for a loop.
However, on his podcast, Green mentioned his understanding of the situation differed. He recalled a conversation with Dunleavy in which he was led to believe he could potentially be traded for Antetokounmpo. “He didn’t rule it out,” Green shared, feeling uncertain about his position at that time.
When pressed on whether Green could be part of a trade involving another player like Jimmy Butler, Dunleavy was evasive, saying, “I’m not diving into specifics about who’s in or out of trade talks.”
As the summer approaches, the Warriors aim to make impactful moves. Dunleavy emphasized the team’s commitment to improvement, whether that involves developing young talent or acquiring first-round picks.
Reflecting on the current season, Dunleavy admitted uncertainty, particularly given Butler’s injury and Porzingis’s health. “I’m curious about how things will unfold,” he remarked. “This addition could really benefit us, reminiscent of when we brought in Jimmy. Despite the hurdles, we’re hoping for a strong outcome.”
The pursuit of Antetokounmpo isn’t entirely off the table for the Warriors, with numerous teams eyeing him as a potential addition. Looking forward, Dunleavy reinforced the team’s readiness to give Curry—and the broader Warriors core—a genuine chance at another championship if the right opportunities arise.
