The Golden State Warriors are all-in on landing Giannis Antetokounmpo by the Feb. 5 trade deadline, but if either a) he gets traded elsewhere or b) the Bucks signal they’re keeping him until the offseason, the Warriors will need to pivot quickly.
In any event, the Bucks will likely be tanking for the rest of the season – making Myles Turner available. Sports Illustrated’s Joey Akeley proposed a blockbuster trade idea where Milwaukee’s starting center lands in the Bay:
Proposed Trade
Golden State Warriors receive: C Myles TurnerMilwaukee Bucks receive: F Jonathan Kuminga, C Quinten Post, C Trayce Jackson-Davis, top-20-protected 2032 first-round pick
Why the Warriors Should Consider It
Turner is the rim protector Golden State hasn’t had since Andrew Bogut in 2015-16. While averaging just 13.0 points and 5.5 rebounds this season, his team’s defense has been better with him on the court than off for the 10th straight year (per Cleaning the Glass).
He shoots threes well (39.0% this season after a career-high 39.6% last year) – perfect for Golden State’s spacing system.Compared to Quinten Post (worse 3PT% at 35.2%, weaker rim protection), Turner is a clear upgrade at center. Over the last 15 games, Post is a -35 +/- while Al Horford is +87.
The Warriors could play Turner or Horford essentially every minute both are healthy, turning a minor weakness into a major strength – especially with Jimmy Butler out for the season (torn ACL).
Why the Bucks Should Accept The Bucks are about to become one of the worst teams in the NBA and have little use for Turner long-term. They should sell high to the best offer.
Jonathan Kuminga is the wild card: 23 years old with massive upside on a team-friendly deal. The Bucks could play him heavy minutes the rest of the season to boost his trade value for summer.
Quinten Post is a restricted free agent this offseason – the Bucks could re-sign him or use him as a future trade chip if he finds his shot.A top-20-protected 2032 first-round pick is reasonable future value for a rebuilding team.
Bottom Line If Giannis isn’t coming before the deadline, trading Kuminga + Post + Jackson-Davis + a protected pick for Turner is a smart pivot for Golden State. Turner brings elite rim protection, floor spacing, and playoff experience the team desperately needs – improving their chances of sneaking into the playoffs and extending Stephen Curry’s championship window.
Warriors Nation – would you make this trade?
Swap Kuminga for Turner to upgrade the center spot now?Or hold the young core and wait for a bigger swing in the summer?