Warriors Target $27M Mavericks Star to Bolster Steph’s Squad
The Golden State Warriors are reportedly interested in acquiring Dallas Mavericks’ Naji Marshall in exchange for Buddy Hield. This potential trade could address both teams’ roster imbalances while remaining financially viable.
Warriors Aim for Naji Marshall
The Warriors have a crowded backcourt, especially after adding Seth Curry and with the expected return of De’Anthony Melton. Buddy Hield, 32, has seen his role diminish and does not necessarily fit with the younger roster around Stephen Curry, who is entering his 37th year.
Naji Marshall, standing at 6’7”, brings the size and defensive skills that the Warriors are currently lacking. His playing style aligns with the Warriors’ small-ball identity, giving them the wing depth they desire.
Mavericks Need Hield’s Shooting
The Mavericks have experienced challenges early this season, primarily due to injuries affecting Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. Buddy Hield, with his career 40% shooting from three-point range, could serve as a valuable floor spacer. His ability to shoot provides a necessary complement to their star players and aims to revive an offense that has been inconsistent.
Trade Structure and Financials
- Buddy Hield’s Salary: $9.2 million
- Naji Marshall’s Salary: $9 million
The salaries of both players are closely matched, facilitating a straightforward trade structure, although the teams are hovering near the salary cap apron. This situation might require a minor third-party trade to smoothly execute the swap without involving additional assets.
Comparative Performance
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Field Goal % | 3-Point % | Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naji Marshall | 10.3 | 4.3 | 2.4 | 48.2% | 25.8% | $9.0M |
| Buddy Hield | 7.6 | 2.0 | 1.6 | 41.4% | 35% | $9.2M |
Potential Gains for Each Team
Golden State Warriors’ Benefits
- Acquire a defensive wing suitable for switch-heavy play.
- Enhance roster balance without escalating payroll.
- Add perimeter defense to support aging players.
Dallas Mavericks’ Benefits
- Gain a shooter to improve floor spacing.
- Enhance offensive flow alongside Luka Dončić.
- Bring in a proven scorer to stabilize the bench offense.
Risks and Considerations
Every trade carries risks. For the Warriors, Marshall’s 3-point shooting percentage raises concerns. His addition might also complicate spacing around Klay Thompson. Conversely, the Mavericks face challenges with Hield’s defensive capabilities being a liability.
However, these risks are manageable, making this trade a sensible option for both teams. As the NBA season progresses, adjusting strategies while addressing immediate needs is essential. This deal appears to be an understated but impactful solution that fulfills both team’s current requirements.
