The Golden State Warriors have limped out to a 13-15 start to the 2025-26 NBA season, and it is no secret that they are looking for some help. They have been linked to some of the biggest names on the trade market, including Giannis Antetokounmpo, as they are looking to maximize their chances in the twilight years of Stephen Curry’s career.
But according to insider Chris Haynes of Amazon Prime, the Warriors may be looking at secondary level players as well in order to fill a massive need.
Warriors Eyeing Interior Help Via The Trade Market
Based on a report from Haynes on Friday, Golden State has been linked to three specific front court targets: Daniel Gafford of the Dallas Mavericks, Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets, and Robert Williams III of the Portland Trail Blazers. All three players fit the profile of a rim-running, shot-blocking big man, a style of play the Warriors have sorely missed this season.
The Warriors have underperformed in key interior categories this season. They sit in the bottom half of the league in rebounds and blocked shots, and shockingly rank dead last in points in the paint, according to Haynes’ report on NBA on Prime. A lack of size has hampered their ability to compete against physical Western Conference fronts like the Spurs and Thunder.
The Warriors tried addressing this internally by signing Al Horford in the offseason, but injuries and limited production (just 13 games played with below average production) have left the front office searching for a more impactful, available solution.
Gafford, Claxton Among The Reported Options On The Table
What the Bucks and Warriors are looking for on the trade market for @NBAonPrime. pic.twitter.com/Pl2CcXo5AV
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) December 20, 2025
At 6-foot-10 with a rare vertical athletic profile, Daniel Gafford provides a high-energy defensive boost, especially as a rim protector and lob threat. While he isn’t a dominant rebounder, his ability to protect the paint and run the floor aligns with what the Warriors are seeking. Gafford is under a manageable contract, making him an appealing trade target not just for Golden State but for multiple contending teams across the league.
Nic Claxton would be the best defensive option of the three players listed. If the Warriors were to land Claxton, they’d instantly upgrade their interior defense and rim pressure, and he could be at least a bit of a boost on the offensive end. Through 26 games so far in 2025-26, he is averaging 13.5 points per, which would be a career-high.
As the February trade deadline draws closer, the Warriors will have to weigh potential trade costs against both short-term gains and long-term flexibility. They are already one of the oldest teams in the league and might be in one of their final years of contention, at least with Curry at the helm.
So getting him some help by way of a player who could also be a part of the team’s post-Curry future may be the smartest move on the board for Golden State.
