Golden State’s moving slow, but the priority’s obvious now. Behind the scenes the Warriors are checking several options to beef up an inside that’s been exposed as too light. The guiding idea: add size, impact and athleticism without wrecking what they are. It’s not new. It’s getting urgent. Against teams that make the paint a war zone, Golden State can’t answer for long. Defensive rebounding and rim protection keep getting picked apart.
“The Warriors are buyers… they are looking for size and athleticism… a list of targets are Daniel Gafford, Nic Claxton, and Robert Williams.”
Chris Haynes speaks on what the Warriors are looking for in this upcoming trade deadline 👀
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) December 20, 2025
A targeted search in the trade market
According to league whispers, Golden State is actively shopping the trade market. The aim isn’t to rip apart the core, it’s to bolt on an inside who can provide an immediate presence. Three names keep popping up in the chatter.
Daniel Gafford: energy and verticality
Daniel Gafford’s on the radar. Liked for finishing at the rim and protecting the paint, he brings nonstop activity and pick-and-roll efficiency. He fits the obvious need: secure the paint without killing the Warriors’ pace.
Nicolas Claxton: mobility first
Another option is Nicolas Claxton. He sells himself with defensive versatility. Mobile enough to bother perimeter threats and still be a deterrent at the rim, he’d give Golden State valuable flexibility. His ability to cover multiple positions slots neatly into Steve Kerr’s defensive scheme.
Robert Williams: the health gamble
Then there’s Robert Williams. When he’s healthy, his defensive impact is felt across the league. Shot-blocking, rebounding, intimidation — he ticks a lot of boxes. The catch is health. Availability will decide whether any deal actually makes sense.
A balance to strike
With deadlines looming, the front office has to choose. Add an athletic big and you might solve the paint problem. Stand pat and hope it holds. One looks sensible. The other would be classic Golden State risk-taking.
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