New Report on Warriors' Alternative Trade Option After Kevin Durant

The Golden State Warriors could pivot to a Chicago Bulls veteran as a trade option after Kevin Durant, Jimmy Butler attempts

Jan 12, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) drives against Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic (9) during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images | Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Ever since the Los Angeles Lakers struck a deal to bring Luka Doncic in for a package centered around Anthony Davis, the NBA's trade deadline period has only continued to be filled with new reports. While the San Antonio Spurs acquired De'Aaron Fox shortly thereafter, the next name to emerge in rumors was Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant.

Linked to a possible reunion with the Golden State Warriors, Marc Stein and Shams Charania were among those who shut down those reports, saying Durant has no interest in a return. As Golden State continues to look for a star to add to the roster, the team could circle back to a past trade target to get a deal done.

The Warriors could pivot to Nikola Vucevic if they miss out on Kevin Durant and Jimmy Butler, per @ShamsCharania

(h/t @ohnohedidnt24 ) pic.twitter.com/SLWu45v6iA

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 5, 2025

According to ESPN's Charania, the Warriors could pivot back to seeking a deal for Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic if they are unable to complete a deal for Durant or Jimmy Butler. Vucevic was a trade target linked with Golden State for weeks, but rumors died down over the past few days once it was revealed the Warriors were seeking talents like Durant.

If Golden State does opt to trade for Vucevic, they'd hope the former All-Star would be able to continue his stellar play in the Bay Area. Over the last six games for Vucevic, he's averaged 16.8 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists.

League sources inform @ClutchPoints that the Warriors are shifting their focus to other trade opportunities over the next 24 hours after being informed that Kevin Durant has no desire to return.

Jimmy Butler and Nikola Vucevic remain discussion points for the Warriors.

— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) February 5, 2025

Given the success of rookie second-rounder Quinten Post playing the stretch big position for Golden State, a move for Vucevic could blossom in that role with the Warriors and help them make a push after the All-Star break.

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