The Golden State Warriors reportedly have interest in trading for Victor Oladipo, according to Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer.
Oladipo was acquired by the Houston Rockets in the four-team trade that sent James Harden to the Brooklyn Nets.
With the Rockets’ recent struggles (currently on a 13-game losing streak) and Oladipo set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, he could be on the move again by the March 25 trade deadline.
Oladipo, 28, recently also turned down a two-year, $45.2 million maximum contract extension from the Rockets.
Per O’Connor:
League sources say the Warriors have interest in acquiring Rockets guard Victor Oladipo. The former Pacer has been up and down in his second season following a major knee injury, averaging 20 points on only 39.9 percent from the field. Golden State would not have the cap space to pursue him this summer, so the time to pounce would be now. Houston can’t demand too much in a deal given Oladipo has underwhelmed and will become an unrestricted free agent. Plus, Golden State wouldn’t have a whole lot to offer. Because of picks owed elsewhere, the Warriors are able to deal up to just two first-round picks: one from 2021 (via Minnesota) or 2022, and one from 2026 or 2027.
The Warriors’ interest in Oladipo signals that the front office has intentions of finding another ball handler to take some pressure off of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, O’Connor also notes.
Another ball handler on the wing like Oladipo could prove to have a similar role to that of Andre Iguodala or Shaun Livingston on the Warriors’ championship teams.
Despite low scoring efficiency this season, Oladipo would have the opportunity to receive better looks when surrounded by better talent.
The Warriors could ultimately use some more depth on the wing along with ball handling and Oladipo has the tools to fit those needs.
If a trade did come about, the Warriors would likely need to include either Andrew Wiggins or Kelly Oubre Jr. in the deal for salary purposes.
