Warriors Trade Rumors: 3 players the Warriors are targeting ahead of the trade deadline

The NBA trade deadline will close next week ahead of the annual NBA All-Star Event in North Carolina. The trade window has historically closed on the Thursday after the All-Star Game, however, since 2018, the deadline has closed 10 days before the NBA's best players face off in the prestigious game.

The deadline was moved forward in order to allow traded players to sort out arrangements for themselves and their families, and the NBA is unlikely to move the deadline back anytime soon. Nevertheless, the trade deadline is still one of the most exciting times for NBA fans, and the seven days are likely to provide a number of twists and turns.

The Golden State Warriors are among the teams that won't be looking to make major additions, however, the reigning Champions may look to bring at least one player to help the teams struggling bench.

So, here we will look at three players that are reportedly interesting the Warriors ahead of the deadline.

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#3 Trey Burke

New York Knicks v Indiana Pacers

Trey Burke has impressed for the struggling Knicks this season, averaging 11.6 points and 2.9 assists per contest. Nevertheless, due to the Knicks' current struggles, the New York Post is reporting that the team has made the 26-year-old available for trade, and the Warriors may make a move in the next week:

In search of second-round picks, the Knicks will explore trading Burke at the Feb. 7 deadline, and he said he’s fine whether he stays or goes.

Burke has been with the Knicks since 2018, although with the point guard has recently seen a reduction in minutes as the Knicks have increasingly focused on developing younger players. The Warriors can seemingly acquire Burke for little in return, and the former Jazz player would be a great back up for Steph Curry.

#2 Rodney Hood

Golden State Warriors v Cleveland Cavaliers

Rodney Hood has been one of the Cavaliers' best performers this season, although the 26-year-old will become a free agent this summer. Due to this, Sam Amico is reporting that a number of teams are interested in acquiring Hood, and the Warriors are among the interested parties:

Hood’s cap-friendly contract of around $3.4 million also expires at season’s end. It should be noted, though, that Hood is playing on a qualifying offer and can, therefore, veto a trade.The Los Angeles Clippers are at least one team keeping an eye on Hood. I’ve recently heard of interest from the Pelicans, Sacramento Kings, Toronto Raptors and, yes, Golden State Warriors, too.

Hood has played 44 times for the Cavs this season, averaging 12.3 points, 2.4 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. Hood is unlikely to veto a trade to a team that are the overwhelming favourites to win another Championship this season, and shooting guard could be a good fit until at least the summer.

#1 J.R. Smith

2018 NBA Finals - Media Day

J.R. Smith has faced off against the Warriors during the last four NBA Finals, however, Amico Hoops is reporting that the veteran could soon be lining up in a Warriors uniform:

It appears exiled guard J.R. Smith may be somewhere closer to accepting a buyout after the trade deadline, after all. He has been working out and wants to play. Teams such as the Rockets and Warriors may be willing to give Smith a shot.

Smith has played just 11 times for the Cavs this season, and the 33-year-old has been away from the team since November. Despite this, the Warriors' interest in Smith seems genuine, although it is unlikely that the veteran will join in a trade.

In all likelihood, Smith will have to agree on a buyout with the Cavs, as the Warriors won't be willing to take on his current contract.