Golden State Warriors Eyeing Nikola Vucevic and Brandon Ingram if Co-Star Deal Falls Through
The Golden State Warriors have built their dynasty on the strength of an elite core consisting of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. After multiple championships and numerous deep playoff runs, their blueprint for success has been predicated on maintaining a top-tier supporting cast, complemented by sharp front-office decisions and strategic roster moves. With their eyes set on returning to title contention, the Warriors’ management is now rumored to be exploring backup options for adding a co-star to Curry, particularly if their primary targets don’t come to fruition.
Two names have recently emerged as potential targets for the Warriors in this backup scenario: Nikola Vucevic, the skilled center for the Chicago Bulls, and Brandon Ingram, the versatile forward for the New Orleans Pelicans. Both players represent intriguing options to pair with Curry, and they could fill specific gaps in Golden State’s roster. However, the road to acquiring either player isn’t a simple one, and the Warriors will need to maneuver through both financial and basketball-related hurdles.
The Need for a Co-Star
The Warriors are always in search of another star to complement Curry’s game. While Curry has proven himself to be one of the greatest players of all time, even the best players need help in the modern NBA. Golden State’s run of championships was largely built around the “Splash Brothers” duo of Curry and Thompson, with Green anchoring the defense. However, as the NBA evolves, having a third co-star or second star has become nearly essential for title contention.
The rise of teams like the Milwaukee Bucks (with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jrue Holiday) and the Boston Celtics (with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown) has reinforced the idea that having multiple star players is key. The Warriors recognize this need and are looking for a player who can help take the burden off Curry’s shoulders, especially as Curry enters his mid-30s. Ideally, this new star would complement Curry’s game, providing either scoring, playmaking, or defensive versatility.
Nikola Vucevic: A Skilled Big Man for Golden State?
Nikola Vucevic is an intriguing target for the Warriors, offering a unique blend of size, skill, and experience. Vucevic, a two-time All-Star, has long been considered one of the most underrated big men in the NBA. Standing at 7-feet tall, Vucevic is a capable scorer and rebounder who can stretch the floor with his shooting. In the right system, his scoring ability could provide much-needed offense to the Warriors’ frontcourt.
Vucevic has averaged over 17 points and 10 rebounds per game over the past few seasons, and his ability to space the floor with a reliable three-point shot could fit well with the Warriors’ fast-paced, perimeter-oriented offense. His ability to stretch defenses and provide a steady presence in the paint would complement Curry’s perimeter game, potentially adding another dimension to Golden State’s offense.
However, Vucevic also brings defensive concerns. While he has improved defensively over the years, he’s never been known as a shot-blocker or a rim protector. The Warriors have prided themselves on defense, especially with Green’s presence, and any potential addition would need to mesh with their defensive system. Vucevic would need to be integrated carefully, ensuring that he could hold his own defensively without disrupting Golden State’s established defensive identity.
In terms of acquiring Vucevic, the Warriors would likely have to part with significant assets, particularly given that the Bulls may not be keen to part with him unless a lucrative offer comes their way. The Warriors would need to balance making a competitive trade offer while keeping an eye on their long-term salary cap situation.
Brandon Ingram: A Versatile Forward to Pair with Curry
Brandon Ingram, on the other hand, offers a completely different skill set that could be more aligned with what the Warriors need. Ingram, the 6-foot-9 forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, is known for his scoring ability and versatility. His length, smooth shooting stroke, and ability to create his own shot make him an enticing option for Golden State, particularly as a complementary scorer to Curry.
Ingram has consistently averaged over 20 points per game in recent seasons and has developed into a capable playmaker as well. His scoring comes in many forms, from mid-range jumpers to three-pointers, and he’s also a solid finisher around the rim. With his ability to score both off the dribble and as a catch-and-shoot option, Ingram could slot seamlessly into Golden State’s system, adding another layer of scoring versatility that would make the Warriors even more dangerous offensively.
Moreover, Ingram is still a relatively young player at just 26 years old, which makes him an intriguing long-term investment. His youth, combined with his offensive skill set, makes him an ideal fit for a Warriors team that is looking to build around Curry’s championship window, even as Curry ages into his 30s.
However, Ingram’s defensive ability has often been a point of contention. While he has improved on that end, he still isn’t considered an elite defender. The Warriors would need to mitigate these weaknesses by surrounding Ingram with strong defensive players, especially Green and Thompson. His fit next to Curry in Golden State would also hinge on how well he adapts to playing off the ball and fitting into a high-pace, ball-movement-heavy offense.
The Pelicans, though, would likely demand a hefty price to part with Ingram, and the Warriors would need to dig deep into their assets for a trade to materialize. With Ingram still being under contract for multiple seasons, the Pelicans may not be in a rush to move him unless they receive a deal that sets them up for future success. This could make Ingram a challenging acquisition, but his potential as a long-term partner for Curry could make him worth the investment.
Challenges in Acquiring Vucevic or Ingram
The Warriors face several challenges in acquiring either Vucevic or Ingram. First, both players would likely come with a high price tag in terms of trade assets, and Golden State’s financial situation is already tight due to the contracts of Curry, Thompson, and Green. The Warriors would likely have to include several players and/or draft picks to make a deal work, which could deplete their depth.
Second, both Vucevic and Ingram play in situations where their current teams may not be eager to let them go unless the deal is particularly advantageous. The Warriors would need to be patient and strategic in their approach to any potential trade discussions.
Lastly, while Vucevic and Ingram are both talented, there’s no guarantee they would thrive in the Warriors’ system. The Warriors have a unique playing style based on ball movement, spacing, and selflessness, and not all players can seamlessly fit into that system. Both Vucevic and Ingram would need to adjust their games to fit Golden State’s established culture, which could present challenges despite their talent.
Conclusion
The Golden State Warriors are in an interesting position, looking for that final piece to solidify their title-contending roster. Nikola Vucevic and Brandon Ingram represent two potential targets who could help elevate the Warriors back to the top. Whether the Warriors can make a deal happen will depend on their ability to navigate the complex trade market and find a balance between acquiring a star and maintaining their depth and financial flexibility.
As the trade deadline approaches, expect Golden State’s front office to be highly active in exploring all options. If the Warriors can land either Vucevic or Ingram, they could once again become a formidable force in the NBA, with an offense that can rival any team in the league.
