The Golden State Warriors' 2025-26 season ended with a 115-110 loss to the LA Clippers on April 13, 2026. With Stephen Curry turning 39, the front office must balance supporting their franchise icon with planning for the future, making veterans Jimmy Butler and Andrew Wiggins, along with young forward Jonathan Kuminga, the hottest trade candidates entering the 2026-27 training camp.
Jimmy Butler's situation is the most complex. The 37-year-old star tore his ACL on January 19 and may not be ready until January 2027. He is in the final year of his contract, set to make $56.8 million. The Warriors reportedly explored trading him this offseason, with rumors linking him to a potential deal for Anthony Davis of the Washington Wizards.
Andrew Wiggins has seen his production dip. His contract, which runs through the 2026-27 season, is now viewed as a financial burden for a team needing more consistent two-way play. Moving his salary could create flexibility for a significant roster upgrade.
Jonathan Kuminga represents the team's most valuable young asset. His athleticism and potential make him attractive in trade talks for a star player. However, dealing him would signal a full commitment to winning now with Curry, potentially mortgaging the future.
This aging roster struggled with health and pace. The team went 14-30 without Jimmy Butler last season, a clear indicator of their depth issues. Even with promising pieces like Gui Santos and rookie Yaxel Lendeborg, the wing rotation lacks reliable star power behind Curry.
The front office decided against trading future first-round picks for a short-term fix this past offseason. That cautious approach leaves trades involving current players as the primary path to improvement.
All decisions revolve around Stephen Curry. The Warriors owe it to him to be competitive, but they cannot completely empty their asset cupboard. The goal is to find a legitimate second star to share the offensive load, something they lacked when Curry was injured.
Butler's health timeline complicates his trade value. Teams will be wary of acquiring a high-salary player recovering from a major knee injury. The Warriors might need to attach additional assets to facilitate a deal.
Training camp will be a critical evaluation period. The performance of young players and the health of veterans will directly influence the urgency of any mid-season trades. The front office faces a tight window to build a contender before Curry's career concludes.
