The Golden State Warriors engaged in trade discussions with the Los Angeles Clippers for both Ivica Zubac and Kawhi Leonard earlier this offseason. While those talks did not result in a deal, they reveal the Warriors’ ongoing pursuit of strategic roster changes as they navigate the post-Stephen Curry era. Zubac was ultimately traded to the Indiana Pacers in a deal that sent Bennedict Mathurin, a top-4 protected 2026 first-round pick, and a 2029 unprotected first-rounder to the Clippers.
Zubac, 26, is under contract through the 2027-28 season with a three-year, $58.6 million extension signed in 2024. The deal averaged $19.5 million per year and includes $55.8 million in guaranteed money. His departure from the Clippers clears a significant portion of cap space, helping Los Angeles remain competitive in a loaded Western Conference. The Warriors, meanwhile, would have faced a steep salary hurdle to acquire Zubac, given their own cap constraints and commitment to developing younger players.
The Pacers, in acquiring Zubac, gain a versatile center with a 6.9 points and 7.6 rebounds per game average over the past two seasons. Mathurin, 22, was a key return for the Clippers. The second-year guard averaged 15.8 points and 3.4 assists per game in 2023-24. His inclusion in the trade package gives Indiana a high-upside player while allowing the Pacers to retain cap flexibility heading into next summer.
The Warriors’ reported interest in Kawhi Leonard highlights their continued pursuit of star power. Leonard, 32, is in the final year of his contract and has averaged 18.2 points and 5.3 rebounds per game since joining the Clippers in 2019. Golden State’s discussions with LA suggest they remain open to bold moves, even as they begin to rebuild around younger core players like Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis.
The Warriors entered the offseason with a cap situation that limited their ability to make blockbuster additions. Their current roster is projected to be below the luxury tax line, but they remain active in exploring all avenues to improve. With the trade deadline approaching on Feb. 6, the Warriors will continue to monitor opportunities to reshape their team and set the foundation for long-term success.
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