The Golden State Warriors have eyes on a useful small forward on the Indiana Pacers ahead of the Feb. 6 NBA trade deadline.
According to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, the Warriors see Pacers wing Aaron Nesmith as a talent who can service Golden State’s lineup in a starting or bench role.
“The Warriors, sources said, have shown interest in Nesmith and are monitoring the 25-year-old’s status with the Pacers leading up to the trade deadline,” Siegel reported.
“Leading up to the trade deadline, Golden State is prioritizing secondary talents who can help build a bridge between head coach Steve Kerr’s first and second units. Given his team-friendly contract and his ability to be a catch-and-shoot threat on the wing, Nesmith is a player who can bring a lot to the table for Golden State.”
Nesmith is an awe-inducing athlete. He complements his superior outside shooting with a head-hunting ability to attack the rim and finish with authority, whether a defender is present or not. This season, the Vanderbilt product is shooting a ridiculous 54.5 percent from three-point range. Over the last two campaigns, Nesmith has made 1.9 triples per contest on 42.3 percent shooting from deep.
Nesmith could soar in mutually beneficial Warriors pairing
At 6-6, 215 pounds, the South Carolina native could gift the Warriors with what they need at present.
Golden State has the chance to inherit a sizable forward that can not only spell for the injured Jonathan Kuminga throughout the rest of the month of January, should the franchise act fast to acquire his services, but he could also take the next step in his career.
Nesmith does not exhibit the most astounding ball-handling and shot-creating abilities, but that’s not to say that he can’t add new elements to his repertoire and ascend, especially while playing under a notable coach like Warriors head coach Steve Kerr.
Kubicek noted Nesmith’s $11 million annual salary in each of the next three seasons including the current campaign as a reason for the Dubs to go after the cost-effective wing. Golden State needs offensive punch, energy, and defense. Nesmith can give them that in either aforementioned capacity.
