
Golden State Warriors Pushing to Land $45 million Indiana Pacers guard in Heated Sign-and-Trade Battle with the Los Angeles Lakers
The
Golden State Warriors
are locked in a competitive race to land veteran guard Malcolm Brogdon, as they aim to bolster their roster for one more championship push alongside Stephen Curry.
With the franchise still firmly in win-now mode, the front office is exploring all avenues to bring in experienced talent that complements their aging core — and Brogdon has emerged as a prime target.
Warriors Face Stiff Competition for Malcolm Brogdon
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Warriors and their Western Conference rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, are both actively working to complete a sign-and-trade deal with the Washington Wizards for Brogdon. The list of suitors doesn't end there — the Clippers, Suns, Pelicans, Timberwolves, Kings, and Bucks are also reportedly monitoring the situation.
For the Warriors, adding Brogdon could be a crucial step in reshaping their supporting cast around Curry, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson — assuming the latter returns. With limited flexibility and championship expectations still looming, Golden State knows any move could be the difference between a deep playoff run or another early exit.
What Brogdon Brings to the Warriors
Malcolm Brogdon (Image via Getty)
Malcolm Brogdon isn't just another name on the market. The 2016 second-round pick boasts an impressive résumé, including Rookie of the Year and Sixth Man of the Year honors.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Upto 15% Discount for Salaried Individuals
ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan
Get Quote
Undo
Brogdon's 2024-25 Stats with the Wizards:
Stat
Value
Points per game
12.7
Rebounds per game
3.8
Assists per game
4.1
3-Point Percentage
28.6%
While his three-point shooting dipped significantly this past season — down from consecutive years shooting over 40% — Brogdon still offers value as a secondary ball handler, capable defender, and steadying presence off the bench or in closing lineups.
For a Warriors squad that has often struggled with depth and reliable backcourt production beyond Curry, Brogdon's arrival could address multiple issues at once.
Why the Warriors Need This Move
The Warriors have faced consistency issues, injuries, and a lack of bench production in recent seasons. Malcolm Brogdon's experience and versatility align well with Steve Kerr's system, where ball movement, defense, and composure are essential.
At nearly 33 years old, Brogdon may not be a long-term solution, but his skill set perfectly fits the short-term focus Golden State is operating under. With the Western Conference as competitive as ever and Curry still playing at an elite level, the Warriors can't afford to stand still.
As Billy Heyen noted, 'If one of the title contenders winds up with Brogdon, it could be an underrated move that goes a long way toward chasing a championship.'
While blockbuster trades often dominate headlines, it's moves like acquiring Malcolm Brogdon that can quietly elevate a contender's ceiling. For the Warriors, securing Brogdon could stabilize their rotation, relieve Curry of ball-handling duties at times, and inject veteran composure into their pursuit of another NBA title.
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors could buyout $8,150,000 Miami Heat star to bolster squad around Curry-Butler power duo
The front office's willingness to battle the Lakers and other suitors for Brogdon signals their intent: the Warriors aren't ready to close the championship window just yet.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Time of India
7 hours ago
- Time of India
Golden State Warriors Pass on Deandre Ayton Amid Center Crisis: Smart Strategy or Missed Opportunity?
Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (2) and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) vie for the ball in the second half of an NBA basketball game on Feb. 10, 2025, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File) In an offseason where big men have shifted across the Western Conference, the Golden State Warriors have made an eyebrow-raising decision: they chose not to pursue Deandre Ayton , who recently joined the Los Angeles Lakers after a buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers . This revelation, first reported by Monte Porter of NBC Sports, highlights Golden State's surprising disinterest in one of the most productive centers available. Why Deandre Ayton Made Sense for the Golden State Warriors Deandre Ayton's profile as a player aligns well with the Golden State Warriors ' frontcourt gaps. Standing 7 feet tall and weighing 250 pounds, the Bahamian center is known for his consistent production and versatility. In his seven NBA seasons, Ayton has averaged a double-double every year—making him the only active player with that feat. Deandre Ayton Career Averages Stat Value Points Per Game 16.5 Rebounds Per Game 10.5 Seasons with Double-Double Avg 7 (all seasons) Ayton's ability to stretch the floor with midrange shooting and his speed in transition make him a modern center fit. On paper, he appeared to be an ideal solution for Golden State's ongoing struggle to dominate the paint. Golden State Warriors' Mysterious Silence on Ayton Deandre Ayton hyped to Los Angeles Lakers' jersey (Source:@deandreayton/Instagram) Despite some reports suggesting otherwise, Porter clarified that 'the Warriors, according to multiple league sources, were not among the teams that lined up to gauge Ayton's interest.' Golden State's lack of effort to acquire Ayton is puzzling, especially considering how their current depth at center has been inconsistent. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Why seniors are rushing to get this Internet box – here's why! Techno Mag Learn More Undo The move (or lack thereof) suggests that either the front office has alternative plans in place—or that they didn't see Deandre Ayton as a fit for their system or culture. Current Frontcourt Situation in Golden State With Kevon Looney signing with the New Orleans Pelicans, the Golden State Warriors' center rotation has grown thinner. They now rely on young big men like Quinten Post and Trayce Jackson-Davis, both of whom have potential but lack the experience needed to anchor a playoff-caliber team. Meanwhile, Draymond Green—often forced into the small-ball center role—is aging and playing fewer minutes at that position. Head coach Steve Kerr has openly expressed a desire to preserve Green's longevity by reducing his center duties. Current Center Depth Chart Player Experience Level Notes Quinten Post Rookie Undeveloped but promising Trayce Jackson-Davis 2nd Year High energy, still learning Draymond Green Veteran Played center, now scaling back Kevon Looney (Gone) Veteran Signed with Pelicans in free agency Possible Alternatives To Ayton and What's Next for the Warriors The Golden State Warriors are reportedly still in the market for a proven center. Veteran Al Horford has been linked to the team, though he's also attracting interest from other franchises. If Horford signs elsewhere, Golden State will need to act swiftly to find another option. Possible Scenarios for Warriors - Free Agent Signing: Limited pool remains, but still a possibility. - Trade Option: Could explore deals using draft capital or depth players. - Internal Development: Bet on Post and Jackson-Davis to develop rapidly. - Stand Pat: Trust existing core to make a deep run with small-ball strategies. Given the competitive nature of the Western Conference, staying passive might not be a viable option. With teams like the Lakers, Nuggets, and Suns boasting strong frontcourts, the Warriors will need to make a move if they hope to stay competitive. Also read: Kevin Durant's Baseball Quip About Michael Jordan Leaves LeBron in Stitches on 'Mind The Game' Podcast Golden State's decision to ignore the Deandre Ayton sweepstakes could come back to haunt them if their center depth fails to hold up. Whether it's a matter of financial planning, locker room chemistry, or strategic fit, the Golden State Warriors' front office has made a bet—and only time will tell if it pays off. Catch Manika Batra's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 3. Watch Here!


Time of India
8 hours ago
- Time of India
Emirates NBA Cup: 30 teams have been rounded up into 6 groups as the 2025 group draw results are revealed
Emirates NBA Cup (Image via NBA) Thirty teams from the Eastern and Western Conferences have come together once more for the 2025 Emirates NBA Cup. The group draw results are out, and each conference will have 3 groups, comprising 5 teams each, who will fight it out to become the winners of the third-ever NBA Cup. All 30 teams will begin their journey with the group stages before advancing to the knockout rounds, where 6+2 wildcard teams are set to compete to reach the quarterfinals, then semifinals, then finals, and finally become winners. Results for the Emirates NBA Cup group draws Each conference has three groups competing to reach the knockout stages. And which teams have been grouped together for the season are finally out. In both the Western and Eastern Conferences, we have Groups A, B, and C. So let's take a look at who all have been clubbed together. NBA Cup Group Draw Results (Image via X) Western Conference Group A: Oklahoma City Thunder, Minnesota Timberwolves, Sacramento Kings, Phoenix Suns, Utah Jazz Group B: Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, New Orleans Pelicans Group C: Houston Rockets, Denver Nuggets, Golden State Warriors, Portland Trail Blazers, San Antonio Spurs Eastern Conference Group A: Cleveland Cavaliers, Indiana Pacers, Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, Washington Wizards Group B: Boston Celtics, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers Group C: New York Knicks, Milwaukee Bucks, Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat, Charlotte Hornets What is the format for the Emirates NBA Cup? The Emirates NBA Cup began as the NBA In-Season Tournament Champions Cup back in the 2023-24 season. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Then, during its second season, the league made some changes, renaming it the NBA Cup, among other things. The Milwaukee Bucks are the current champions, but let's see who ends up taking the cup back home this year. The format will follow last year's pattern, where each team is set to play four group stage games on 'Cup Nights' between October 31 and November 28, one each against the other. From the group stages, 8 teams will advance to the knockout stage - one winner from each group and a wildcard team from each conference. Finally, the Emirates NBA Cup quarter finals will take place on December 9 and 10, and then the semi-finals and finals will take place on December 13 and 16, respectively. Excitement for the upcoming season is high, and with the NBA Cup continuing this season for the third annual tournament, fans cannot wait to get back to the courtside. Also Read: NBA 2K26- Exploring the cover images, release date, cost, editions, and all Catch Manika Batra's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 3. Watch Here!


Time of India
8 hours ago
- Time of India
Chet Holmgren Inks $250 Million Extension as Thunder Commit to Building Dynasty Around Rising Star
The Oklahoma City Thunder have made a seismic move in the NBA landscape, agreeing to a five-year, fully guaranteed maximum rookie contract extension with star center Chet Holmgren . Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The deal, which could reach a staggering $250 million, cements Holmgren's place as a foundational piece of the Thunder's championship core. Chet Holmgren's Journey From Rookie Setbacks to NBA Champion journey to this contract has been anything but straightforward. Drafted second overall in 2022, Holmgren missed his entire rookie season due to a foot injury. Undeterred, he bounced back with a stellar sophomore campaign, finishing second in Rookie of the Year voting after averaging 16.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game while shooting 37% from three-point range. Despite a fractured pelvis that limited him to just 32 regular-season games in 2024-25, Holmgren returned in time for the playoffs, where his defensive prowess and versatile skill set helped propel the Oklahoma City Thunder to their first NBA championship. In the Finals, Holmgren delivered a memorable Game 7 performance with 18 points, eight rebounds, and five blocks, solidifying his reputation as a game-changer. Breaking Down Chet Holmgren's Mega-Deal - Length: 5 years - Value: Up to $250 million (fully guaranteed, with escalators based on performance) - Cap Impact: The contract will account for roughly 25% of the NBA salary cap, with potential to rise if Chet Holmgren earns All-NBA honors or other accolades. - Comparison: Only a handful of players in NBA history have secured rookie extensions of this magnitude, underscoring Holmgren's perceived value. Why Did OKC Bet Big on Holmgren? 1. Defensive Anchor Holmgren's elite rim protection and ability to guard multiple positions have transformed the defense from solid to formidable. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now His shot-blocking instincts and length make him a nightmare for opposing offenses. 2. Offensive Versatility Standing 7'1' with guard-like ball-handling and shooting touch, Holmgren spaces the floor and creates mismatches. His three-point shooting and ability to run in transition fit perfectly with the Thunder's up-tempo, positionless style. 3. Championship Pedigree Holmgren's contributions during the Thunder's title run proved he can deliver on the biggest stage. His performance in the playoffs, particularly on defense, was instrumental in OKC's championship breakthrough. The Risks: Health and Cap Management While Holmgren's talent is undeniable, his injury history has raised eyebrows. He's missed significant time in two of his three NBA seasons, making this massive financial commitment a calculated risk for the Oklahoma City Thunder. The extension also means OKC will soon have three players—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Holmgren, and Jalen Williams (expected to sign a similar deal)—taking up the lion's share of the team's salary cap. This will test the Thunder's front office acumen as they try to maintain depth and flexibility in a league with strict luxury tax and 'second apron' penalties. What's Next for the Oklahoma City Thunder? With Chet Holmgren and MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander both locked in on long-term deals, the Oklahoma City Thunder have doubled down on their young core. The next order of business is securing Jalen Williams, another rising star from the 2022 draft class, to a rookie max extension. If successful, OKC will have a trio of stars under contract through their primes, positioning themselves as perennial contenders. Fan and Analyst Reactions to Chet's New Contract The reaction to Holmgren's extension has been a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. Oklahoma City Thunder fans are thrilled to see the franchise invest in its homegrown talent, while analysts note the risk-reward balance of betting big on a player with an injury history. Many believe Holmgren's unique skill set and upside justify the gamble, especially after his championship heroics. Also read: Chet Holmgren's $250 million extension is a bold statement by the Oklahoma City Thunder: they are all-in on their young stars and committed to building a dynasty. If Chet Holmgren stays healthy and continues to develop, this deal could be remembered as the cornerstone of Oklahoma City's next great era.