Warriors’ Win or Nets’ Masterplan?
The NBA trade season is off to an intriguing start with the Golden State Warriors and Brooklyn Nets completing a deal that brings veteran point guard Dennis Schroder to Golden State. This early trade sets the tone for the 2024-25 NBA season, addressing immediate needs for both teams while hinting at their longer-term strategies. Here’s a breakdown of the trade, along with grades for each side.
Trade Details
- To Warriors: Dennis Schroder, second-round draft pick
- To Nets: De’Anthony Melton (out for the season, ACL injury), Reece Beekman, three second-round draft picks
Golden State Warriors: B
Why This Trade Makes Sense
Golden State had a glaring need for bench scoring and playmaking, especially when Stephen Curry sits. The Warriors’ offensive rating plummets from 119.1 to 101.7 when Curry is off the court, exposing the lack of scoring depth. Adding Schroder, a reliable scorer averaging 18.4 points per game this season, addresses this weakness effectively.
Schroder’s ability to function off the ball, proven during his time with LeBron James on the Los Angeles Lakers, fits perfectly with Golden State’s motion-heavy offense. Furthermore, his improvement in pick-and-roll efficiency adds another dimension to the Warriors’ attack. Defensively, Schroder’s performance against Curry in past playoff matchups likely factored into Golden State’s decision, as he can contribute on both ends of the floor.
What Holds This Back from an A Grade
While Schroder fills a key role, the Warriors sacrificed flexibility. De’Anthony Melton’s expiring contract could have been a valuable trade asset closer to the February deadline for acquiring a bigger star, such as Jimmy Butler. By using Melton’s contract now, Golden State limits its options for major moves later in the season.
The Warriors also risk depth issues if they pursue another blockbuster trade. Without Melton’s contract for salary matching, any significant acquisition will likely require packaging multiple rotation players, which could disrupt the team’s balance.
The Bigger Picture
This deal improves the Warriors immediately, positioning them for early-season wins in a highly competitive Western Conference. However, the long-term implications of this move will depend on Schroder’s impact and whether Golden State can still make another splash at the trade deadline.
Brooklyn Nets: B
Why This Trade Makes Sense
For Brooklyn, this trade reflects a strategic pivot towards rebuilding. Dennis Schroder has been the Nets’ most impactful player this season, with the team losing by 11.1 points per 100 possessions when he’s off the court but holding steady when he’s on. While trading him might weaken the team in the short term, it aligns with Brooklyn’s commitment to tanking after reacquiring control of their own draft picks for 2025 and 2026.
The Nets’ lottery strategy hinges on losing games to maximize the value of their picks. Schroder’s presence, while beneficial on the court, worked against this goal. By trading him now, Brooklyn accelerates its rebuilding efforts, even if the immediate return of three second-round picks feels underwhelming.
What Holds This Back from an A Grade
Timing is a key factor. The Nets may have fetched a better return for Schroder closer to the trade deadline, when playoff contenders are more desperate for quality players. The three second-round picks they received, while useful, don’t match the value Schroder might have commanded in February.
Additionally, the Nets still hold tradeable assets like Dorian Finney-Smith and Cam Johnson, both of whom could net significant returns. If Brooklyn continues its rebuild strategy, these players should be moved soon to maximize their value.
The Bigger Picture
This trade demonstrates Brooklyn’s commitment to a clear vision: prioritize the future over short-term gains. While the return on Schroder might not be ideal, the move aligns with the Nets’ broader strategy to rebuild through the draft.
Key Implications for Both Teams
Warriors:
Golden State solidifies its bench and positions itself for a stronger regular season. However, the opportunity cost could become significant if the team struggles to make additional moves before the deadline.
Nets:
Brooklyn is sending a clear message: the rebuild is in full swing. By trading Schroder early, the Nets signal their willingness to part with other veterans and focus on lottery positioning.
Final Grades
- Golden State Warriors: B — A smart move for now, but it could limit flexibility for bigger trades.
- Brooklyn Nets: B — A step in the right direction for a rebuilding team, but the return could have been better.
As the NBA trade season unfolds, this early deal sets the tone for what promises to be a competitive and strategic run to the February deadline. Both teams made sensible moves, but the true impact will be judged by how the rest of the season plays out.
