The Golden State Warriors are focused on extending the Stephen Curry era for as long as possible, and their success hinges on winning more championships.

For Curry, the team’s all-time leader and face of the franchise, the pursuit of titles is the primary motivation to continue playing. As long as the Warriors remain competitive, Curry’s drive to lead the team will persist. To ensure their championship window stays open, the Warriors may need to explore trade options, and one intriguing proposal could bolster their roster.

According to recent trade analysis utilizing the Spotrac trade machine and the NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the Warriors could make a move to acquire Jonas Valančiūnas and a 2025 first-round pick. In this hypothetical deal, the Warriors would gain much-needed depth at the center position while also securing future draft capital.

Currently, Golden State sits eighth in the Western Conference standings. If the season ended today, the team would find itself in the play-in tournament rather than a guaranteed playoff spot. For a team with championship aspirations, this position is far from ideal. The Warriors’ struggles this season have highlighted the need for roster improvements, and Valančiūnas could be the answer.

Valančiūnas, a veteran center for the New Orleans Pelicans, brings a unique skill set to the table. He is a physical presence in the paint, capable of holding his own against the league’s elite big men. Additionally, his ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting is a valuable asset. This versatility addresses a glaring need for the Warriors, who currently lack a center with similar attributes. Kevon Looney, while reliable and effective, does not provide outside shooting. Meanwhile, rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis is still developing and does not yet offer consistent perimeter scoring.

By adding Valančiūnas, the Warriors would gain a bruising big man who can contribute offensively and defensively. His presence would complement the team’s core of Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, providing balance to the lineup. Additionally, the inclusion of a 2025 first-round pick in the trade offers the Warriors flexibility for the future.

The move would signal the Warriors’ commitment to winning now while still considering their long-term outlook. As the Stephen Curry era progresses, every decision the front office makes will be scrutinized for its potential impact on the team’s title hopes. Acquiring Valančiūnas could be a step in the right direction, ensuring that the Warriors remain contenders in a highly competitive Western Conference.