In the world of basketball, few teams have experienced as many ups and downs in recent years as the Golden State Warriors. While they remain a force in the NBA, recent developments surrounding Andrew Wiggins and the team’s cautious approach in the offseason have stirred discussions about their future trajectory.

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Wiggins’ Declining Performance

Once considered a key piece in the Warriors’ puzzle, Andrew Wiggins’ recent form has left much to be desired. Despite playing a crucial role in the Warriors’ 2022 Championship win, Wiggins has seen a noticeable dip in his performance. He averaged a career-low 13.2 points last season with reduced shooting percentages, including a modest 35% from beyond the arc. As he approaches his 30th birthday in February, concerns about his ability to remain a consistent contributor are growing.

Without Wiggins playing quality basketball, the Warriors’ defensive backbone—previously held together by Wiggins and Draymond Green—has weakened. The team finished the 2021-22 season ranked 15th in defensive rating, a far cry from their usual top-tier defensive performances.

Wiggins’ Contract Burden

Adding to the concern is Wiggins’ contract situation. The forward is owed a hefty $84 million over the next three seasons, accounting for 18% of the team’s salary cap. While Wiggins was rewarded for his championship efforts with a contract extension in 2023, the return on that investment has been underwhelming. His contract, once seen as a reward for his contribution, now looms large over the team’s finances, potentially limiting their flexibility in the trade market.

Many analysts believe Wiggins could become a trade piece in the future, especially if the Warriors decide to pursue a superstar to pair alongside Stephen Curry. Wiggins’ contract might help match the salary of a high-caliber player in a potential deal, although no significant trade has materialized yet.

The Kelly Oubre Jr. Experience and Future Trade Strategy

The Warriors’ hesitance to take bold moves in the trade market can be traced back to their experience with Kelly Oubre Jr. in the 2020-21 season. After acquiring Oubre in a trade that significantly increased their luxury tax burden, the Warriors saw little return on their investment. Oubre’s inconsistent performances, alongside the hefty cost of the move, served as a cautionary tale for the Warriors’ front office.

This experience is one reason why the Warriors have not pursued big-name players like Brandon Ingram, despite their need for a secondary playmaker. Ingram, while talented, does not have the consensus support from the team’s decision-makers, leading to a more measured and patient approach in the offseason.

Strategic Patience in the Offseason

The Warriors’ offseason moves have reflected this newfound caution. Instead of chasing superstar trades, they have focused on adding depth to the roster, signing players like Chris Paul, Buddy Hield, and Anthony Melton. These acquisitions, while not earth-shattering, have bolstered the team’s depth and versatility without risking the team’s financial future or roster balance.

The Warriors remain on the lookout for a second star to complement Stephen Curry, but they are unwilling to jeopardize their long-term stability for a quick fix. With Curry still performing at an elite level, the team believes they can remain competitive by making smart moves, rather than gambling on risky trades.

Looking Ahead: The Warriors’ Future

As the Warriors look ahead to the 2024-25 season, questions remain about the team’s ability to stay competitive in the long term. Wiggins’ contract, alongside the potential aging of key players like Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, presents challenges. However, if Wiggins can regain his form, the Warriors may still have the pieces to make another deep playoff run.

Ultimately, the Warriors’ future will depend on their ability to keep their core intact while continuing to make shrewd roster adjustments. Whether Wiggins remains a key part of that future or becomes a trade chip in the pursuit of a superstar remains to be seen. For now, the team’s cautious and strategic approach appears to be their best bet for sustained success in an increasingly competitive NBA landscape.