NBA trade rumors: Golden State Warriors could fish for $186 million superstar in a blockbuster deal with Dallas Mavericks; Al Horford key trade asset? | NBA News
The Golden State Warriors are again looking at the trade market to fix a problem that has followed them all season: the lack of size and reliable defense inside. League chatter has linked them to Anthony Davis, now with the Dallas Mavericks, as a possible answer. No deal is close, but the idea alone shows how seriously Golden State is weighing big moves.The timing matters. The Warriors are still built around Stephen Curry, and the front office knows the window is not open forever. Dallas, on the other hand, is in a shaky phase after front-office changes and could be open to resetting its direction if the return makes sense long term.
How a deal could work
One commonly discussed framework involves three teams. Anthony Davis would land in Golden State Warriors. Dallas would receive Al Horford, Jonathan Kuminga, and a 2028 first-round pick. Another team would take on extra salary to make the contracts line up.
Anthony Davis (Image via AP)
Davis’ contract is the biggest hurdle. It includes a possible $62.7 million player option for the 2027–28 season. To make the math work under the second apron, the Warriors would need to move Horford’s expiring deal and part with a young, valuable piece like Kuminga, who is nearing extension talks.
Why the Golden State Warriors would consider it
For Golden State Warriors, the appeal is simple. Anthony Davis gives them rim protection, rebounding, and a defender who can switch across positions. He also fits cleanly next to Curry on offense. At 32, he represents a clear push to compete right now. Moving on from Horford also reflects reality: his role has been limited, and the production has not matched the need.
What Dallas would gain
Dallas would be trading star power for flexibility. Horford brings experience and spacing, even if his best years are behind him. Kuminga adds athletic upside at 22, and the draft pick helps build toward a younger core that includes Cooper Flagg.
Stat snapshot
Horford’s season in Golden State shows why the Warriors are looking for an upgrade.
| Player | Team | Games | MPG | PPG | RPG | APG | BPG | FG% | 3P% |
| Al Horford | GSW | ~15 | 21.6 | 5.4 | 3.9 | 1.8 | 1.0 | 33.9% | 32.6% |
| Anthony Davis | DAL | 24 | ~32 | 21.0 | 10.9 | 3.5 | 2.5* | 53%* | 30%* |
*Based on partial season averages.Also read: NBA trade rumors: Golden State Warriors linked to $52.6 milion Los Angeles Lakers legend to form deadly duo with Stephen Curry and improve title odds
Who benefits most
Golden State Warriors would take on risk tied to Anthony Davis’ health but gain a player who clearly raises their ceiling. Dallas would gain assets and breathing room but lose a rare two-way presence. The balance favors the Warriors if they are serious about making the most of Curry’s remaining prime.
