The Golden State Warriors had big plans in the works for the offseason, aiming to create a Core 4 lineup of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, Paul George, and Lauri Markkanen. The idea was to build a powerhouse team that could dominate on both ends of the court and give Curry a legitimate chance at another championship as he approaches his age-36 season.
“It was a dream scenario,” Green said of the potential lineup. “Paul George was on board and wanted to come here. Mike Dunleavy really pushed to make it happen, but the Clippers just wouldn’t agree to an opt-in and trade deal.”
The Warriors were also in talks to acquire Markkanen, hoping to make a huge splash with both him and George joining the team. However, negotiations with the Clippers and their tough stance, along with Danny Ainge’s reputation for being a shrewd negotiator, ultimately derailed the plan.
“The conversation was always about that possibility,” Green lamented. “You get both of those guys, you make a huge splash. But the Clippers weren’t really willing to play ball. Then Danny Ainge was being Danny Ainge.”
Despite the setback, Green believes that these are the types of moves that GMs should be making to maximize the talent of players like Curry in the twilight of their careers. The Olympics served as a reminder that Curry still has plenty left in the tank when it matters most.
In the end, the meddling of the Clippers and Ainge may have thwarted the Warriors’ grand scheme, much to Green’s dismay. While the rest of the NBA may breathe a sigh of relief, Green is left to wonder what could have been with a potential Core 4 lineup on the court.