NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 20: D’Angelo Russell #1 of the Brooklyn Nets reacts in the second half against the Philadelphia 76ers at Barclays Center on April 20, 2019 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City.The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Brooklyn Nets 112-108. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Just minutes before the clock struck midnight, the Golden State Warriors acquired D’Angelo Russell in a sign-and-trade with the Nets.
It looked like the Golden State Warriors were headed towards a season without any significant championship hopes, but that might have just changed when the Golden State Warriors agreed to a sign-and-trade with the Nets in order to bring Russell to Golden State. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Russell has been moved to the Warriors, and it was also announced that Russell had agreed to a four-year maximum contract with the Warriors worth $117 million. This deal will average $29.25 million per year. This is all wrapped into a sign-and-trade deal with Durant’s decision to go to Brooklyn.
Shortly after, it was also reported that Andre Iguodala has been sent to the Memphis Grizzlies as well as a 2024 protected first-round pick in the 2024 (protected 1-4), 2025 (protected 1) and 2026 unprotected in order to clear cap space to make the deal work.
This is an extremely stunning move on behalf of the Warriors. Nobody expected them to go out an acquire yet another superstar after just losing Kevin Durant to the Brooklyn Nets in free agency. It goes to show how badly the Warriors want to remain extremely competitive in the ultra-tough Western Conference.
The new look Warriors might not have Klay Thompson at the beginning of the year due to his torn ACL injury, but they will sport a new look lineup that includes Steph Curry, Russell, and Draymond Green. Once Thompson does eventually come back, the Warriors could once again be one of the top contenders to win a championship. The Warriors have somehow managed to form yet another superstar-filled team.