NBA Insider Reveals Warriors' Trade Deadline Targets as Nic Claxton, More Linked
The struggling Golden State Warriors reportedly are eying a big man at this season's NBA trade deadline.
Per NBA insider Chris Haynes, the Warriors are "looking for size and athleticism." Haynes noted specifically that the team is eyeing Dallas Mavericks' Daniel Gafford, Brooklyn Nets' Nic Claxton and Portland Trail Blazers' Robert Williams.
The Warriors clearly need some size around the rim, as they rank 19th in rebounds per game (43.5), 22nd in blocks per game (4.3) and last in points in the paint per game (41.4).
While Golden State's protection around the rim has been subpar, it hasn't been a complete disaster on defense. The Warriors currently have the third-best defensive rating (111.4) despite a 13-15 start to the season.
Gafford has been a reliable option for the Mavericks in recent years, putting up 8.5 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game this year. With Dallas' rough start to the year, it's reasonable to believe it will be a seller at the deadline.
Claxton is having a career start to the season offensively, posting 13.5 points per game to go along with 7.8 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game.
Given his struggles with injuries, Williams would likely be the most affordable option for the Warriors. Still, he's a decent paint presence, posting 5.7 rebounds points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game off the bench in Portland.
