A Trade The Golden State Warriors And Brooklyn Nets Should Consider
The Brooklyn Nets and Golden State Warriors were both eliminated from the 2023 NBA Playoffs.
In the first round, the Nets were swept by the Philadelphia 76ers, while the Warriors lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round (in six games).
Both teams are in different places, as the Nets are in rebuilding mode, while the Warriors have won four NBA Championships since 2015.
I believe they should consider swapping Jordan Poole and Ben Simmons.
Why?
Poole had a very productive regular season with averages of 20.4 points, 2.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists per contest while playing in every game (including the Playoffs).
That said, the former Michigan star struggled in a big way during the postseason, with averages of 10.3 points, 2.2 rebounds and 3.5 assists per contest while shooting 34.1% from the field and 25.4% from the three-point range.
Playing behind Steph Curry and Klay Thompson may not be the best situation for Poole.
At just 23 years old, he could be an excellent fit on the Nets with Mikal Bridges and would be able to have the ball in his hands a lot more.
Meanwhile, Simmons was once among the best young rising stars in the league.
The former LSU star has fallen off over the last few seasons (and dealt with injuries), but he can play a pivotal role for the Warriors.
When healthy, Simmons is an elite defender and playmaker.
This past season, he had moments where he looked like himself and averaged 6.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.3 steals per contest while shooting 56.6% from the field.
When next season begins, Simmons will only be 27 years old, and the Warriors have an excellent history of getting the best out of players.
Andrew Wiggins had the reputation of being a draft bust, but in his third season with the franchise, he started in the 2022 NBA All-Star Game (and helped the Warriors win the title).
In 2023, the Warriors ranked just 21st in opponents' points per game (116.6 PPG) and 25th in blocks per game (4.0).
Therefore, it's clear they need to look for players who can help them on defense.
Simmons will make just under $38 million next season, while Poole will be paid $27.5 million.
Their salaries are close enough that a deal could get done by the Warriors adding in another player (or two).
While this hypothetical trade is unlikely, it's something the two teams should explore.
