Warriors Poised to Land an ‘Upgraded Version’ of Trayce Jackson-Davis Thanks to Timberwolves’ Blunder

In a league where blockbuster trades can reshape dynasties overnight, NBA insider Marc Stein dropped a bombshell back in June: the Philadelphia 76ers have zero intention of parting ways with their superstar power forward Joel Embiid this offseason. Instead, the Sixers are doubling down, banking on Embiid’s return to full health to unleash a devastating trio alongside newly signed Paul George and rising star Tyrese Maxey. But hey, who says we can’t indulge in some wild “what if” scenarios? Enter the Golden State Warriors, a team entangled in a fierce contract battle with their own young forward, Jonathan Kuminga. Could these two franchises ignite the summer’s most explosive deal? Let’s dive into this hypothetical thriller!

The Warriors’ front office is locked in a high-stakes standoff with restricted free agent Kuminga, whose breakout potential has clashed head-on with Golden State’s salary cap realities. This brewing “contract war” could be the perfect catalyst for a seismic trade, swapping the disgruntled forward for the dominant Embiid. Imagine the ripple effects: a fresh start for Kuminga in Philly and a championship-or-bust boost for the aging Warriors core.

The Mock Trade That Could Shake the NBA

Here’s how this jaw-dropping deal might unfold:

Philadelphia 76ers receive: Power forward Jonathan Kuminga, center Trayce Jackson-Davis, shooting guard Buddy Hield, and two unprotected first-round picks.
Golden State Warriors receive: Power forward Joel Embiid.

Kuminga would undeniably be the crown jewel heading to Philly, but to snag a talent like Embiid, the Warriors might need to sweeten the pot even further—especially without sacrificing another starter like Draymond Green or Andrew Wiggins. In that scenario, expect the Sixers to demand a third draft pick, turning this into a treasure trove of future assets for a rebuilding-minded front office.

In an ideal universe, Embiid storms back this fall, dominating defenses and propelling the Sixers deep into the playoffs with George and Maxey by his side. That’s precisely why Philly isn’t fielding offers right now—they’re all-in on their big man. But let’s face reality: Embiid’s injury woes are a recurring nightmare. He suited up for a mere 19 games in the 2024-25 season and only 39 the year before, never cracking 68 appearances in any regular season of his career.

If Embiid can’t recapture his 2022-23 MVP magic—where he averaged a league-leading 33.1 points per game—the Sixers would be wise to cash in while his market value remains sky-high. At 31, he’s still a force, but trading him now could net a haul like Kuminga (a 21-year-old with All-Star upside), Jackson-Davis (a promising rim protector), Hield (a sharpshooting veteran), and those precious picks. It’s a strategic pivot from injury uncertainty to youthful rebuilding, ensuring Philly stays competitive long-term.

Snagging Embiid isn’t without massive pitfalls—his health history alone could derail any contender’s dreams. Yet, Golden State emerges as the ultimate landing spot, thanks to their championship DNA and a roster on the cusp of transition. With icons like Steph Curry (37) and Draymond Green (35) entering their twilight years, the Warriors are staring down a rebuild sooner than later. Embiid’s potential decline aligns perfectly with that timeline, allowing Golden State to chase one last ring without mortgaging an eternal future.

Picture this: A healthy Embiid anchoring the frontcourt, drawing double-teams and creating open looks for Curry’s lethal threes. It’s a nightmare for opponents, blending Embiid’s post dominance with Golden State’s motion offense. Plus, offloading Kuminga would slam the door on their ugly contract saga.

As ESPN’s Anthony Slater reported: “Kuminga set out this summer in search of a contract that would signify a commitment to him as a future building block for the Warriors or elsewhere, sources said. His representation presented a three-year, $82 million deal, which the Warriors resisted. As of this past weekend, there had been no movement toward a compromise. So, everything sits in the same spot it did 10 days ago. The Warriors have not upped their offer, and Kuminga has indicated to those close to him that the $7.9 million qualifying offer is more appealing to him than the Warriors’ current pitch. Something has to give before the Oct. 1 deadline.”

Dumping the drama for Embiid? That’s a warrior’s move.

In the fantasy realm, this trade would send shockwaves through draft boards. Embiid, no longer the unchallenged alpha in Golden State’s star-studded lineup, might relinquish his scoring crown—he led the league in points during his last two healthy campaigns. But teaming with 3-point wizard Curry? Expect Embiid’s field-goal percentage to skyrocket, as defenses scramble and leave him with easier buckets inside.

Curry, at 37, could see his shot volume dip, preserving his legs for the playoffs while Embiid shoulders more offensive load. On the flip side, Kuminga stands to explode in Philly. Last season, he posted 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 47 games off the bench. Thrust into a starting role with Maxey and George? We’re talking a massive usage spike, potentially vaulting him into top-50 fantasy status as he unleashes his athleticism in a bigger spotlight.

Of course, this is all hypothetical—for now. But in a league full of surprises, don’t be shocked if the Kuminga contract war sparks the fuse for an Embiid blockbuster. The NBA offseason just got a whole lot spicier!