The Golden State Warriors have long been a model of success in the NBA, blending veteran leadership with emerging talent. As the 2025 offseason approaches, the franchise is exploring avenues to bolster its roster, with Giannis Antetokounmpo emerging as a potential target. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst has highlighted that the Warriors possess the necessary assets to acquire the Milwaukee Bucks’ superstar, should he request a trade . Additionally, The Ringer’s Logan Murdock suggests that Derrick White of the Boston Celtics could be a valuable addition to the Warriors’ lineup .
Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP and perennial All-NBA selection, has been the cornerstone of the Bucks’ success. However, following Milwaukee’s early exit from the 2025 playoffs, speculation has arisen about his future with the team. While Giannis has not publicly requested a trade, the possibility of such a move cannot be discounted, especially if he seeks a new challenge or a more competitive environment.
The Warriors, with their championship pedigree and financial flexibility, present an appealing destination for Giannis. According to Windhorst, the team has the requisite assets to facilitate a trade. Key players such as Brandin Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga, and Moses Moody, along with multiple future draft picks, could form the core of a trade package. Podziemski, in particular, has shown promise with his shooting and playmaking abilities, making him an attractive asset for the Bucks .
However, executing such a trade is not without challenges. The Warriors are currently hard-capped due to a sign-and-trade deal involving Kyle Anderson, limiting their ability to take on additional salary without matching it through outgoing contracts. This constraint means that players like Andrew Wiggins, Gary Payton II, and Kevon Looney would need to be included in any trade to balance the financials . Such a move would significantly alter the team’s depth and could impact their championship aspirations in the short term.
In addition to the assets already mentioned, Derrick White of the Boston Celtics has been identified as a potential target for the Warriors. White’s defensive prowess, playmaking skills, and shooting efficiency make him a valuable addition to any team. The Warriors’ interest in White stems from his previous experience with head coach Steve Kerr during the 2024 Olympics, which showcased his ability to thrive in the Warriors’ system .
However, acquiring White presents its own set of challenges. The Celtics are reportedly considering a roster shake-up, especially following Jayson Tatum’s serious injury . While this could make White available, his upcoming four-year, \$118 million contract complicates matters for the Warriors. To make the trade financially viable, the Warriors would likely need to include multiple players, such as Moses Moody and Buddy Hield, along with first-round draft picks. This approach would deplete their depth and strain their salary cap, making the trade scenario less attractive .
The Warriors’ pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Derrick White underscores their commitment to remaining competitive in the Western Conference. By pairing Giannis with Stephen Curry, the team would form one of the most formidable duos in NBA history, capable of contending for championships in the coming years. Similarly, adding White to the backcourt would provide the Warriors with a reliable defender and playmaker, enhancing their overall depth.
However, the financial and roster implications of such moves cannot be overlooked. The Warriors would need to carefully balance their assets and future prospects to ensure that any trade does not compromise their long-term success. Additionally, the potential departure of key players like Wiggins and Looney could impact the team’s defensive capabilities and overall chemistry.
In conclusion, while the Golden State Warriors have the assets to pursue a trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo, the complexities involved make such a move challenging. Similarly, acquiring Derrick White would require careful consideration of financial constraints and roster balance. As the offseason progresses, the Warriors will need to weigh the benefits of these potential acquisitions against the risks and make decisions that align with their long-term goals. The pursuit of these players reflects the Warriors’ ongoing commitment to excellence and their desire to remain at the forefront of the NBA landscape.
