Here's a little bit about the Warriors from Chad Ford's chat on ESPN.com today:
Joe (Davis): Chad, will the Warriors get into the trade mix at all? They could put together a really enticing package around Monta Ellis. Would J-Rich and Ellis and a pick be enough for Pau?
Chad Ford: I think they pulled off their big deal. I think if Jason Richardson could be moved they'd do it. But, I don't see it happening.
Now before everyone goes nuts about the thought of trading Warriors Nation fav Jay Richie Rich (but rightfully so, of course!), there's the very real possibility the Warriors might be looking to move him more than we'd all like to believe. Here's some things to think about:
- The Warriors have a glut of guys who are in the same 2/ 3 mold with Stephen Jackson, Matt Barnes, Kelenna Azubuike, Mickael Pietrus, and Jason Richardson. Throw in Monta Ellis who's at his best as a scorer, not a distributor and it's going to be a nightmare for Nellie to try to find minutes for all these guys. There's no question that Jason is the best player out of all these guys, but minutes are still going to an issue.
- In case you haven't noticed the Warriors lack big men like former Warrior Tim Hardaway lacks common sense during radio interviews. They need another 4 or 5 and Jason is the most attractive commodity the Warriors have in a trade involving big money.
- When Nellie first came to the Warriors he talked about all the veterans on the roster very publicly. Nellie had plenty to say about Baron Davis, Troy Murphy, Mike Dunleavy, Adonal Foyle, an Mickael Pietrus. But for some reason he didn't say much about JRich aside from that JR needed to hit his free throws at a higher rate. It was strange. I assumed Nellie just thought Jason was going to give his all and was self-motivated enough to work on the holes in his game, but maybe there's something more to this. Maybe Nellie isn't a fan of JRich's game or thinks he's expendable.
- Since coming into the league as a very raw player who could mostly just dunk, Jason Richardson has worked hard on his game and improved it by leaps and bounds. However, aside from his good 3pt shoot much of his game heavily relies on his uber-athleticism and crazy hops. If JRich doesn't make a full recovery from his knee surgery, he might never be the same player that was a joy to watch last year. Think Penny Hardaway after the knee injuries.
- Shooting guard is the easiest position to replace in the NBA.
How untradeable do you think Jason Richardson is in the eyes on Chris Mullin, Rod Higgins, and Don Nelson?
99% of rumors never happen, but 99% of them are fun to talk about!
Also check out GSoM friend Tim Kawakami's blog post No more big Warrior moves this season… unless it’s Pietrus