The Golden State Warriors have signaled that they are not a contender in any trade for New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III. The assessment comes as the league watches Giannis Antetokounmpo's confirmed move from Milwaukee to Miami, a shift that reshapes the offseason market for the defending champions. With a clear need for a versatile wing, the Warriors are evaluating options while keeping their own draft assets intact.
Murphy, a 26-year-old 6-foot-8 wing, posted career-high numbers in the 2025-26 season. Over 66 games he averaged 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.5 steals, shooting 47 percent from the floor and 37.9 percent from three-point range. His combination of scoring efficiency and defensive versatility would fit the Warriors' motion offense, providing additional spacing for Stephen Curry and a reliable perimeter option alongside Klay Thompson.
The Pelicans have made it clear that a first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft is a key piece in any deal for Murphy. The Warriors already own the No. 11 overall selection, a slot New Orleans has expressed willingness to acquire. Beyond Golden State, the trade chatter has highlighted the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers as front-runners, with Detroit and Boston also mentioned as potential suitors. A scenario involving the Atlanta Hawks and the No. 8 overall pick has been floated, though it would require the Pelicans to surrender significant assets to recoup their own selection.
Keeping the No. 11 pick gives Golden State flexibility to address the wing shortage through other channels. Retaining that draft slot preserves the ability to either select a young talent or package the pick in a smaller trade that does not jeopardize the core roster. The Warriors' front office has historically been cautious about taking on large contracts, and retaining their pick aligns with that approach as they navigate a tight cap environment.
Looking ahead, the Pelicans are expected to finalize a trade before the 2026 draft, while the Warriors continue to explore free-agency targets and modest trade packages that align with their roster philosophy. Whether Murphy lands in a market that values his scoring punch or the Warriors turn to alternative wing options, the next few weeks will shape the composition of two very different teams entering the upcoming season.
Golden State Warriors 
