Apr 2, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Moses Moody (4) reacts after making a three-point basket against the Dallas Mavericks in the second quarter at the Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY SportsSHARE
The Milwaukee Bucks need a boost when it comes to outside shooting and defense in the backcourt, especially with a non-shooter in two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. In that regard, the front office can go for Golden State Warriors shooting guard Moses Moody to improve how they perform in those areas.
Moody’s journey with the Golden State Warriors has been one of promise and challenge. As a first-round draft pick in 2021, he has struggled to carve out a consistent role on a team with immense depth.
Apr 12, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Moses Moody (4) guards New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum (3) during the fourth quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports
This past season, Moody appeared in 66 games, averaging 8.1 points, 3 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game. While his shooting percentages were respectable, the Warriors’ front office believes Moody’s development has been hindered by the team’s roster depth.
When given the opportunity, Moody has shown flashes of his potential, demonstrating an ability to be a scoring threat off the bench. However, with experienced veterans like All-Star guard Klay Thompson ahead of him, Moody has had to fight an uphill battle for playing time.
As the Warriors front office evaluates the team’s future, they face a decision on Moody’s role. If he is unable to secure a more substantial part in the rotation, it may be in his best interest to explore opportunities elsewhere, where he can maximize his on-court experience and development.
Golden State Warriors’ Moses Moody Named as Potential Trade Target for Milwaukee BucksApr 12, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Herbert Jones (5) leaves his feet to guard Golden State Warriors guard Moses Moody (4) during the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports
If the Warriors don’t see any need for Moody, they could trade him in the offseason to get some value in return. In an article for Behind The Buck Pass, Dalton Sell explained why the Bucks’ front office should go for him.
“Golden State missed the playoffs in 2024 and must pick a direction. Klay Thompson is a free agent, and the Warriors must add talent to return to title contention. Their spending is a concern, which throws another wrench into their plans. If the Dubs decide to give their dynasty a few more cracks, Moody could be traded for win-now help.
The Bucks must upgrade on the wing, and Moody could be impactful on both ends of the floor. Golden State might flip the 22-year-old for win-now help with Milwaukee jumping in as the third team. Some rebuilding teams would prefer draft capital and may jump at the chance to trade Moody for a first-round pick,” Sell wrote.
As it stands, Moody still has around $5.8 million left in the final year of his contract. Along with that amount, he can easily be integrated into head coach Doc Rivers‘ rotation, especially if veteran guard Patrick Beverley doesn’t return to the team.
Apr 7, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Moses Moody (4) shoots a 3-pointer during the first quarter against the Utah Jazz at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Kupbens-USA TODAY Sports
It remains to be seen whether Moody will be made available by the Dubs or not. If it’s the former, the Bucks may stand to become better if they make the move for him.
Apr 7, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Moses Moody (4) shoots over Utah Jazz forward Micah Potter (25) during the first quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Kupbens-USA TODAY Sports