The Warriors lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round (in six games), while the Nets were swept by the Philadelphia 76ers in the opening round.
The Warriors have won four NBA Championships in the past nine seasons, whilst the Nets are in the midst of a rebuilding phase.
I think the two clubs should talk about switching Ben Simmons and Jordan Poole.
WHY??
Poole played in every game (including the playoffs) and had a very productive regular season, averaging 20.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game.
However, the former star of Michigan really struggled in the postseason, averaging just 10.3 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game while shooting just 34.1% from the field and 25.4% from outside the arc.
Poole might not be able to perform at his best if he is playing behind Steph Curry and Klay Thompson.
He may be a great match for the Nets with Mikal Bridges at just 23 years old and would be able to play with the ball in his hands a lot more.
Simmons was once one of the league’s top young up-and-comers.
The former LSU standout has struggled recently (and has dealt with injuries), but he can be very important for the Warriors.
Simmons is a top-tier defender and playmaker when healthy.
He occasionally appeared like himself during the previous season, averaging 6.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 56.6% from the field.
Simmons will only be 27 years old when the upcoming season begins, and the Warriors have a reputation for getting the best performance out of their players.
Despite having a reputation as a draft flop, Andrew Wiggins started the 2022 NBA All-Star Game in his third season with the team (and assisted the Warriors in winning the championship).
The Warriors were only ranked 25th in blocks per game (4.0) and just 21st in opponents’ points per game (116.6 PPG) in 2023.
It is obvious that they must seek out guys who can aid them on defense.
Next season, Simmons will earn just less than $38 million, while Poole will receive $27.5 million.
Their wages are comparable enough that the Warriors might reach an agreement by bringing in another player (or two).
Even if this hypothetical deal is doubtful, the two teams ought to look into it.
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