Grade the Trade: Raptors turn coveted draft pick into a future starter in new pitch
Laying out the trade for the 31st pick
Actions speak louder than words, and the Golden State Warriors have consistently played anyone possible ahead of Moses Moody on the wing. Whether that was rookie Brandin Podziemski, a struggling Andrew Wiggins or even Lester Quinones at times, the Warriors and head coach Steve Kerr clearly do not see a reliable contributor in Moses Moody.
That's why he makes for the perfect target for the Toronto Raptors, who can use shooting and defense and are in a position to give Moses Moody minutes next season. Moody was the No. 14 pick three years ago and still has a ton of upside to be a long-term starter. He can shoot, score, cut, run in transition and defend, and he has some shot creation chops as well to attack closeouts or in advantage situations.
In other words, he would be an excellent target with the No. 31 pick:
Raptors 31 Moody
The Golden State Warriors are trying to balance a whirlwind of options with which to maximize the remainder of Stephen Curry's window as a Top 10 player. They have been linked to Paul George, Brandon Ingram, Jimmy Butler, Brook Lopez and even Kevin Durant. To make a big swing, however, they need to reduce their team salary enough to stay under the second luxury tax apron, and potentially also the first apron.
Second-round picks are cost-controlled and moving Moses Moody for a second would save the Warriors upwards of four million for next season in luxury tax payments and around three million against the apron. They also wouldn't need to worry about paying Moody his next contract after this season.
There are a number of intriguing options available for the Warriors, whether they want to take a skilled big in Kyle Filipowski, a backup point guard in Tyler Kolek or an upside forward in Johnny Furphy or Tyler Smith. The financial savings this season and a cost-controlled player for the next four years is a compelling enough reason to move off of a wing they consistently devalue.
What about Toronto - would they make this trade?