The Golden State Warriors, a franchise synonymous with the “small-ball” revolution that reshaped the NBA, are reportedly on the verge of a significant strategic pivot. According to multiple reports, the Warriors are preparing to abandon their recognizable identity in favor of a more conventional roster centered on athleticism and size. At the heart of this potential transformation is a rumored trade pursuit for Atlanta Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu, a move that would fundamentally alter their frontcourt and signal a new direction for the team as they aim to maximize Stephen Curry’s remaining prime years.
For over a decade, the Warriors thrived on their unique style of play: rapid ball movement, relentless three-point shooting, defensive versatility, and often playing with a smaller, highly switchable lineup that could outrun and outshoot opponents. This “Death Lineup,” featuring Draymond Green at center, brought multiple championships and revolutionized offensive and defensive schemes across the league. However, as the core of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green has aged, and the physicality of the NBA has evolved, the limitations of their small-ball approach have become more apparent. They’ve frequently struggled against bigger, more athletic frontcourts, particularly in playoff series, highlighting a glaring need for true size, rebounding, and interior defense.
Enter Onyeka Okongwu. The 24-year-old center for the Atlanta Hawks has emerged as one of the league’s most promising young big men. Standing at 6-foot-9 with an impressive 7-foot-1 wingspan, Okongwu possesses elite athleticism, a high motor, and exceptional defensive instincts. He’s a legitimate rim protector, capable of switching onto smaller guards on the perimeter, and a strong rebounder. His offensive game, while not expansive, is highly efficient, featuring strong finishes around the rim, effective pick-and-roll dives, and a growing ability to contribute as a passer. In the 2024-25 season, Okongwu averaged 13.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game, shooting 56.7% from the field. He is currently in the first year of a four-year, $62 million contract, making him a valuable asset on a reasonable deal.
The Warriors’ reported interest in Okongwu is a clear indication of their desire to address their frontcourt deficiencies head-on. Draymond Green, while still an elite defender and playmaker, is undersized as a full-time center and his role often comes with foul trouble. Kevon Looney, a beloved and effective traditional center, has seen his minutes fluctuate and has struggled with consistency due to injuries. Trayce Jackson-Davis, a promising young big man, has shown flashes but is still developing. By acquiring Okongwu, the Warriors would gain a younger, more athletic, and arguably more durable solution at the center position, allowing Green to shift back to his more natural power forward role where his defensive genius can be even more impactful without the constant physical toll of battling bigger centers.
A potential trade package for Okongwu reportedly involves sending Moses Moody and Trayce Jackson-Davis, along with future draft compensation, to the Atlanta Hawks. For the Warriors, this would mean parting with two promising young talents, but the immediate upgrade in size, athleticism, and defensive prowess that Okongwu brings would be seen as a necessary sacrifice to extend their championship window. Moody, a young wing, offers three-and-D potential, while Jackson-Davis has shown flashes of being a solid interior player. However, the consistent need for a dominant presence in the paint has superseded the developmental timelines of these players.
For the Atlanta Hawks, trading Okongwu would be a significant decision. He is a valuable asset on a team that has been hesitant to fully commit to a complete youth movement. However, with Clint Capela still on the roster and Okongwu’s role sometimes inconsistent due to the logjam at center, moving him could provide the Hawks with a reliable 3-and-D wing in Moody, a developmental big in Jackson-Davis, and crucial future draft assets. This influx of young talent and draft capital would give the Hawks greater flexibility for their own roster construction, whether they decide to retool around Trae Young or embark on a more extensive rebuild.
The shift in Golden State’s strategy isn’t just about Okongwu; it’s a broader philosophical change. The playoffs have repeatedly exposed their vulnerabilities against teams with dominant big men. The emphasis on size and athleticism suggests a move towards a more balanced roster, capable of competing physically in the paint while still maintaining their trademark perimeter shooting. This means they might also look at other big men in the trade market or free agency to further bolster their frontcourt depth, complementing Okongwu’s skills.
The clock is ticking on the Curry-Green era, and the Warriors’ management, including GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. and coach Steve Kerr, understands the urgency. To contend for another title, they must adapt. Bringing in a player like Okongwu, who can immediately impact winning on the defensive end and provide a crucial lob threat offensively, is a bold statement. It signifies their commitment to evolving the team’s identity rather than clinging solely to the “small-ball” principles that once defined them.
The potential acquisition of Onyeka Okongwu would not just be a trade; it would be a symbolic turning point for the Golden State Warriors. It would mark a definitive move towards building a more physically imposing and athletically gifted roster, preparing them for the rigors of modern NBA playoff basketball and reaffirming their intent to remain at the pinnacle of the league.
