With the off-season picking up pace and players entering free agency left and right, trade rumors have been flying heavily. One such rumor catching attention is the Golden State Warriors’ interest in the LA Clippers’ guard, Paul George. And following his footsteps might be none other than D’Angelo Russell. When the Bucks’ Patrick Beverley tweeted that D’Lo and PG-13 would soon join Steph in the GSW, it sent fans into a frenzy hinting at a possible change for Steve Kerr’s lineup.
The Bucks guard said, “If Dlo opts in, you can see Steph, PG, Draymond, DLo.” What could this mean for the Golden State? Should this prediction come true, fans know very well that they might be witnessing the end of the Splash Brothers’ era. If the Bay Area wishes to accommodate PG’s salary under the cap, they will be forced to make difficult decisions. However, it’s now clear that Bev felt that the team would let go of Klay to make space for PG, or any further deals for that matter. So, what has the rumor mill been churning?
Recent ESPN reports suggest the Warriors are ready to offer PG a 4-year max contract in free agency. The team has made its stance on the luxury tax clear. In the last three seasons, the team has paid an average of $170 million in luxury tax payments. Owner Joe Lacob has said he’d like to avoid the tax, but manager Mike Dunleavy indicated the importance of “being smart about it,” and revealed that the team is willing to do everything it takes to win.
However, realistically speaking, they might let go of either Chris Paul or Klay Thompson. And if they wish to retain Draymond Green, KT might not be interested in staying anyway, considering all the recent uproar. What’s going on in the Warriors’ locker room?
Will Paul George’s arrival end the Splash Brothers era?
For several years, Steph and Klay, the Splash Brothers, have dominated the NBA’s 3-point records. But as GSW faces imminent financial struggles and strategic decisions are to be made, the likelihood of dissolving this iconic duo/dynasty is growing. His recent social media activity and reports about him being “pissed” with Green’s comments have fueled chatter surrounding KT’s departure from the Golden State. Soon after that, he unfollowed the team on Instagram and removed multiple team-related posts, including the ones from their 2022 Championship run.
USA Today via Reuters
Besides, considering Klay’s recent performance, the team might not be interested in retaining him. He played his career-worst game this post-season against the Kings. And for the first time since his rookie season, he got benched. Acquiring PG and retaining Klay might be nearly impossible. The future of the Warriors and the legendary Splash Brothers hangs in balance.
Can fans expect some major changes to the Golden State’s roster or will the team be able to retain its core?
But while you’re here, check out Shaq’s former agent, Leonard Armato, talk about Shaq vs Kobe.