Julius Randle’s future with the Minnesota Timberwolves may already be in question, despite being acquired as part of the blockbuster Karl-Anthony Towns trade this offseason. With a $30.9 million player option looming in 2025, Randle could opt out and test free agency, leaving Minnesota with the possibility of losing the All-Star forward for nothing. To avoid that scenario, some analysts are already suggesting a trade could be on the horizon.
Enter the Golden State Warriors. Fadeaway World’s Fran Leiva recently proposed a trade that would send Randle to the Warriors in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and two future first-round picks (2026 and 2028). For Golden State, the deal could be a win-win, providing them with a versatile, experienced player to complement Stephen Curry as he approaches the twilight of his career.
Randle’s fit in Golden State might seem unconventional, but his skill set could mirror the small-ball units that led the Warriors to multiple championships. His ability to push the pace, rebound, and distribute the ball — he averaged 4.7 assists during his time with the Knicks — makes him an intriguing addition to Golden State’s fast-paced offense. Leiva notes that while Randle’s shooting efficiency isn’t top-tier, his willingness to take threes would open up lanes for Curry and others to dominate.
With Curry turning 37 in 2025, the Warriors are under pressure to maximize his remaining prime years. Several analysts have stressed that the team may need to prioritize winning now over developing their young core of Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, and Trayce Jackson-Davis. If those players don’t make a significant leap this season, the Warriors could face tough decisions before the February 6 trade deadline.
The situation with Kuminga, in particular, is delicate. With the forward due for an extension entering the 2024-25 season, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst pointed out that if an extension isn’t signed, Kuminga could become a prime trade candidate.
For the Warriors, landing Randle without losing promising young pieces like Kuminga or Podziemski would be a massive victory. As the team gears up for another run at a title, Randle could provide the firepower they need to keep Curry and the Warriors in championship contention.
