The thought of Giannis Antetokounmpo joining the Golden State has shifted from speculative chatter to something far more serious.
As the NBA trade deadline draws closer, league insiders increasingly see Golden State as one of the few organizations prepared to make extreme roster sacrifices to chase another title. With Stephen Curry still performing at an elite level, the franchise appears determined to maximize what remains of his championship window.
That urgency has led to a striking internal stance: Curry is the only player deemed completely untouchable. Everyone else, including long-time cornerstone Draymond Green, could theoretically be part of a larger plan if it brings the Warriors closer to landing Antetokounmpo.
For a team that has built its identity around continuity, that represents a dramatic philosophical shift.
Green‘s name surfacing in these discussions underscores how serious Golden State may be. While the franchise has repeatedly emphasized loyalty, the realities of modern roster construction often demand uncomfortable decisions.
Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP with elite two-way impact, is the type of transformative talent that justifies those conversations.
A bold “loan” concept with massive consequences
Recent reporting suggests rival executives have proposed an unconventional pathway involving Green as a temporary trade piece. The concept hinges on Green‘s contract situation, which includes a $27.6 million player option for next season.
Under this scenario, Golden State would trade Green to another team in exchange for draft assets and salary relief, then reroute those assets in a blockbuster deal centered on Antetokounmpo.
From a purely strategic angle, the logic is understandable. Green remains a respected veteran around the league, particularly for teams that believe they are one move away from contention.
His defensive versatility, playoff experience, and leadership could justify a return that includes one or more first-round picks. Those picks would significantly strengthen the Warriors’ trade package for a superstar of Giannis‘ caliber.
The most delicate part of the plan comes afterward. In theory, Green could opt out of his contract following the trade and return to Golden State on a more affordable deal, effectively rejoining Curry while forming a new core alongside Antetokounmpo.
If executed perfectly, the Warriors would emerge with unparalleled star power and renewed championship aspirations.
In practice, however, the risk is enormous. Declining a $27.6 million option would require Green to sacrifice financial security late in his career, likely returning on a minimum or near-minimum contract.
At 36 years old, that decision would carry long-term implications. For Golden State, the gamble tests whether loyalty, trust, and ambition can align in the pursuit of one last dominant run, or whether the cost of chasing Giannis ultimately proves too steep.
