The Golden State Warriors could target DeMar DeRozan as a Jimmy Butler replacement, with a potential trade package centered around Jonathan Kuminga and a veteran minimum contract going to Sacramento.
The Golden State Warriors could pivot toward a trade for six-time NBA All-Star forward DeMar DeRozan of the Sacramento Kings after Jimmy Butler suffered a season-ending torn ACL, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.
DeMar DeRozan
DeMar DeRozan
DeMar DeRozan
MIN: 33.53
PTS: 18.98 (60.97%)
REB: 3.3
AS: 3.95
ST: 1.44
BL: 0.26
TO: 1.12
GM: 43
Charania hinted that DeRozan, 36, may fit what Golden State needs in Butler's absence.
"Does a player, say DeMar DeRozan, fit the bill of what the Warriors could need without Jimmy Butler. But one way or another, the Warriors are about to find out where they stand with Jonathan Kuminga this season," Charania said.
According to Evan Sidery of Forbes, a swap of Jonathan Kuminga plus a veteran minimum salary for DeRozan is a legal trade framework for Golden State and Sacramento.
This season, DeRozan is averaging 19.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in 43 games, while shooting 50.8% from the field and 35.9% from three-point range.
Credit Image – Scanpix
The 17-year NBA veteran wing is currently in his second season with the Sacramento Kings.
Meanwhile, Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reports that a Jimmy Butler trade cannot be completely ruled out, too.
According to Siegel, all options remain on the table for Golden State, but Kuminga is viewed as the Warriors' primary trade asset, especially with his relationship with head coach Steve Kerr reportedly "fractured beyond repair".
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