The Golden State Warriors’ lack of a traditional, physical center is becoming a critical flaw in a Western Conference dominated by frontcourt giants. With veteran Al Horford regressing at 39 and the young bench options failing to solidify the role, a bold trade solution has emerged that could reshape their championship hopes.
The Problem: A Void in the Middle
The Warriors’ center rotation is in trouble. Al Horford, the offseason replacement for Kevon Looney, is averaging a career-low 5.8 points and 4.3 rebounds on abysmal .343/.320 shooting splits. At 6-foot-9, he’s also undersized against the conference’s elite big men. This has left a gaping hole for a true rim-running, paint-protecting presence.
The Proposed Solution: A Three-Team Blockbuster
On “The Bill Simmons Podcast,” a compelling three-team trade was pitched to address this exact need:
Golden State Warriors RECEIVE: Daniel Gafford (C)
Chicago Bulls RECEIVE: Jonathan Kuminga (F)
Dallas Mavericks RECEIVE: Coby White (G)
Why This Trade Works for the Warriors
Daniel Gafford is the archetypal center Golden State desperately needs. The 27-year-old is an elite finisher and rim protector, averaging 9.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks in just 24 minutes per game for Dallas, while shooting a blistering 61.5% from the field.
He would provide the vertical spacing, interior defense, and physicality that is currently missing. As analyst Kirk Goldsberry noted, “They don’t have that traditional five man… I like it. Kuminga, obviously it’s not clicking.”
Trading the often-injured and awkwardly-fitting Jonathan Kuminga to fill their biggest roster hole is a logical, win-now move for a team built around the aging core of Curry, Butler, and Green.
For the Warriors, this isn’t just a minor upgrade—it’s a strategic necessity. Daniel Gafford represents the missing piece that could stabilize their defense and complete their offensive system. With their championship window still propped open by veteran stars, Golden State cannot afford to stand pat. This trade offers them a “puncher’s chance” to return to serious contention.