The Golden State Warriors have wasted no time sparking the 2024-25 NBA trade season. Though the deal won’t officially be finalized until Sunday, reports confirm that the Warriors are acquiring point guard Dennis Schröder from the Brooklyn Nets. In exchange, Golden State is sending De’Anthony Melton, who is sidelined for the season with an ACL injury, and three second-round picks.
Warriors: Filling a Clear Void
For a team chasing championship aspirations, the Warriors had a glaring weakness. Their offensive efficiency takes a significant nosedive whenever Stephen Curry rests. Without Curry on the floor, their offensive rating plummets from an elite 119.1 to a troubling 101.7. This trade directly addresses that concern by adding Schröder, a proven scorer and capable secondary playmaker.
Schröder’s current season numbers speak volumes. Averaging 18.4 points per game on respectable efficiency, he brings the scoring punch the Warriors desperately need off the bench. His experience playing alongside stars like LeBron James with the Lakers shows he can thrive in a system where he’s not the primary ball-handler—a critical requirement for Golden State’s egalitarian offense.
Moreover, Schröder’s improvement in utilizing screens in pick-and-roll scenarios makes him a more dynamic offensive threat than in past seasons. His defensive capabilities, showcased when he successfully guarded Curry in the 2022 playoffs, only add to his value.
Opportunity Cost: The Warriors’ Trade-Off
Despite the immediate benefits, the trade is not without its drawbacks. De’Anthony Melton’s expiring, mid-level contract would have been a key asset in pursuing a blockbuster deal for a star player—a strategy the Warriors have been eyeing since the offseason. By moving Melton, the Warriors narrow their options for future trades, potentially complicating their ability to land a marquee name like Jimmy Butler.
However, the timing of this deal could be pivotal. While other Western Conference contenders wait until closer to the February deadline to make moves, the Warriors gain an edge by addressing their needs now. In a stacked conference, a few extra wins in December and January might make all the difference come playoff time.
Golden State successfully addresses a critical need and strengthens its bench without giving up a first-round pick or a key rotation player. The only reason this isn’t an “A” is the opportunity cost of losing Melton’s contract as a trade chip.
Looking Ahead: What This Mean.
This trade is a testament to the contrasting priorities of the Warriors and Nets. Golden State, firmly in win-now mode, prioritizes immediate contributions to solidify their championship hopes. Brooklyn, on the other hand, continues to play the long game, accumulating assets to rebuild for a brighter future.
The addition of Schröder could prove pivotal for the Warriors, especially if he elevates their bench production and alleviates the heavy burden on Stephen Curry. Meanwhile, the Nets can take solace in knowing they’ve positioned themselves well for future opportunities.
As the February trade deadline approaches, this deal sets the tone for what promises to be a fascinating NBA trade season. Keep an eye on both teams as they navigate their respective paths—and don’t be surprised if this isn’t the last major move we see from either franchise.
