Thunder Acquire Warriors Center James Wiseman in Mock Trade

 

The Oklahoma City Thunder have already shown they’re on the right track, sitting at 6-7 and having earned several noteworthy victories.

 

Sam Presti, the general manager, is probably looking at the NBA Draft at least once more to enhance the squad, but with little real chance of contending this season. And as a result, OKC’s current approach is to keep relying on the development of young players.

 

The Golden State Warriors can help with that.

 

James Wiseman has three DNPs in his last four games and has been mentioned as a possible trade target.

 

The Golden State Warriors, the defending champions, have underperformed thus far this season. With a record of 5-8 and no road victories, it is evident that some meshing problems need to be resolved.

 

The players for the Dubs are a strange mix of seasoned pros and rising stars. Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green make up the dynastic core, while Jonathan Kuminga, James Wiseman, and Jordan Poole are increasing. Steph Curry is a likely MVP candidate.

 

Although having a past and a future is lovely, the Warriors are caught in the middle. They’ll soon come to a split in the road and have to choose which group to support.

 

But for the time being, Golden State can find some middle ground. Although Wiseman hasn’t worked out well thus far, Presti could easily picture him playing alongside to No. 2 overall pick Chet Holmgren in the Thunder frontcourt of the future.

 

At least for the time being, it is safe to assume that Wiseman is the most disposable member of Golden State’s future.

 

The Thunder have some veterans they’d be ready to go with in exchange for future assets if the Warrior’s leadership wants to lean on the waning championship core for a few last rides.

 

Here is an example of an agreement between the two teams:

 

Oklahoma City will acquire James Wiseman.

 

Mike Muscala, Kenrich Williams, and the first-round pick of the Miami Heat in 2025 be acquired by Golden State.

 

The Warriors would receive an influx of shooting and defensive versatility combined with hustle play from Muscala and Williams, respectively. Presti may sweeten the deal by including one or more selections and providing the Dubs with a couple more weapons.

 

Warriors supporters are not likely to cheer for a showy return, but one would improve their chances of winning the championship this year. Wiseman is unlikely to sell for the asking price they have in mind because he has played less than 50 games in three seasons.

 

The Thunder make the right choice in acquiring Wiseman, who will likely play next to Holmgren and might flourish as a genuine No. 5 while aiding the defense and profiting from easy baskets.