The Golden State Warriors have been eerily quiet this offseason, but a seismic shake-up in the Pacific Division could finally spur the dynastic franchise into action. A bombshell report dropped by NBA insider Pablo Torre on Wednesday sent shockwaves through the league, alleging that the Los Angeles Clippers skirted NBA salary cap rules to pay their two-time NBA champion forward Kawhi Leonard a staggering $28 million for what’s been dubbed a “no-show job.” The fallout from this controversy could push the Clippers toward a full-scale reset, opening a golden opportunity for the Warriors to swoop in and bolster their roster around four-time champion Stephen Curry.
The Clippers are already on shaky ground heading into the 2025-26 season. With an aging core and a roster prone to injury, a single misstep could send their campaign spiraling. If Leonard’s off-court drama escalates, Los Angeles may be forced to re-evaluate their direction, potentially making key players available. For the Warriors, this could be the perfect moment to strike, targeting one of the Clippers’ most reliable role players: 28-year-old forward Derrick Jones Jr.
Jones Jr., a former undrafted gem, has quietly built a reputation as a high-impact two-way player. After leaving the Dallas Mavericks in the summer of 2024, he joined the Clippers and delivered a standout season, averaging 10.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game across 77 appearances, including 55 starts. His 60.9% true shooting percentage underscores his efficiency, making him an appealing target for a Warriors team looking to strengthen their bench and extend Curry’s championship window.
A trade for Jones Jr. wouldn’t come cheap—Golden State might need to part with a young asset like Moses Moody—but the potential payoff could be worth it. Known for his jaw-dropping athleticism, Jones Jr. is more than just a highlight-reel dunker. His defensive tenacity and ability to thrive in transition made him a vital piece for the Mavericks during their run to the 2024 NBA Finals. With the Clippers, he added another dimension to his game, developing a reliable three-point shot that could seamlessly fit into Golden State’s motion-heavy offense.
For Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy, Jones Jr.’s skill set checks all the right boxes. His two-way versatility, relentless energy, and improving perimeter shooting align perfectly with the team’s needs. As Golden State looks to maximize Curry’s prime, adding a player of Jones Jr.’s caliber could provide the spark needed to keep their championship hopes alive.
While a trade for Jones Jr. remains speculative, the Clippers’ turmoil could make such a move more plausible as the 2025-26 trade deadline approaches. If the Warriors seize this moment, they could turn their rival’s misfortune into a game-changing acquisition, setting the stage for another deep playoff run.