The Golden State Warriors are banking on having a strong offseason after failing to make the playoffs, but recent rumors may dash those hopes. The Warriors have long pursued Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Nevertheless, recent rumors seem to indicate that he won't be playing for Golden State. In fact, the Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, Portland Trail Blazers, and Orlando Magic are the current list of teams actively pursuing him according to the Athletic's Sam Amick.
That doesn't mean that the Warriors aren't pursuing him, but those four teams appear to be ahead of them in the Giannis sweepstakes.
Let's assume that one of those four teams ends up with him, possibly Boston. The Warriors wouldn't really have another option to get themselves back into title contention next season.
Warriors may face nightmare offseason scenario if rumors prove to be true
If the Warriors strike out on Giannis, then there really aren't any other obvious backup options. Perhaps L.A. Clippers star Kawhi Leonard might be an option, but he comes with plenty of baggage.
Whether the Clippers would be willing to part ways with Kawhi is still a big question mark. As is whether they would be willing to trade him to the Warriors. If he were available, then he'd be a step down from Giannis but still a potential game changer, but only if he were healthy.
A deal centered around Jimmy Butler and a distant first-round pick for Kawhi would probably be the best the Warriors could hope for if they fail to land Giannis. He'd definitely help them. But with Steph Curry being 38 years old and often missing 20 games a season, it may end up being a lateral move if they aren't healthy at the same time.
That's why Golden State must move heaven and earth to land Giannis because the alternatives aren't enough to make them a contender.
