Golden State Warriors executives are exploring a potential move for Goga Bitadze following the Orlando Magic's acquisition of Desmond Bane. The surprise trade that sent Bane to the "Magic" on Sunday has created financial pressure that could force Orlando to shed salary elsewhere on their roster.
With over $160 million remaining on Bane's contract, plus massive deals for Franz Wagner ($224 million), Jalen Suggs ($150 million), and an anticipated max extension for Paolo Banchero ($247 million), something has to give.
"Magic" management now faces paying three centers—Wendell Carter Jr., Goga Bitadze, and Mo Wagner—a combined $37 million next season. That's simply not sustainable for a team with so much money committed to their perimeter stars.
What makes Bitadze particularly appealing to the "Warriors"? His $8.3 million salary fits perfectly within Golden State's $8.8 million trade exception. This means they could acquire him without sending salary back to Orlando—just draft picks.
Bitadze's contract structure also works in Golden State's favor. The 25-year-old Georgian's deal decreases to $7.6 million in the following season, providing valuable flexibility for a team navigating complex salary cap challenges.
The former 18th overall pick averaged 7.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.4 blocks in 20.4 minutes per game last season, starting 42 games when Orlando battled injuries.
While Carter Jr. has reportedly interested the "Warriors" since the 2020 draft, his three-year, $58.7 million contract makes Bitadze the more realistic target. Golden State currently has only young, unproven centers Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quinten Post under contract.
Of course, there's the dream scenario of pursuing Jaren Jackson Jr. from Memphis, but Bitadze represents the practical option if the "Magic" start cutting costs after their Bane blockbuster.
Can this modest move give the aging "Warriors" core the frontcourt help they desperately need? We'll see if Bob Myers pulls the trigger in what could be a pivotal summer for Golden State.
