Report: Warriors keeping tabs on some mid-lottery prospects

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Since Wednesday is a day that ends in 'y' and 2020 NBA Draft still hasn't happened, one of the Warriors' numerous options presented itself in the form of a report from SNY's Ian Begley.

Begley told Chris Williamson on "The Putback" that the Warriors are staying in touch with players projected to be selected in the back half of the lottery, indicating that Golden State is open to trading down from the No. 2 overall pick in next month's draft.

"I also know that they have been in close contact with players that are projected more towards eighth to [No. 10], in that range," Begley said. "They are doing their homework on those guys that are lower in the draft, and potentially looking to trade in those spots."

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The San Francisco Chronicle's Connor Letourneau reported earlier this month that the Warriors would "strongly consider selecting" Florida State's Devin Vassell and Villanova's Saddiq Bey if Golden State traded down on Nov. 18. James Ham projected Vassell, a 6-foot-7 wing, and Bey, a 6-foot-8 forward, at No. 12 and No. 16 overall, respectively, in NBC Sports Bay Area's latest mock draft. 

There's plenty of uncertainty going into next month's draft, as the incoming class lacks a consensus top prospect. That leaves a lot of room for possibilities, as does the Warriors' reported links to numerous prospects. Golden State could deal to the No. 2 pick to a team worried about losing someone atop its draft board, but the apparent uncertainty also leaves room for the chance the Warriors' top target doesn't remain available if they trade down.

The New York Knicks (No. 8 overall), Washington Wizards (No. 9) and Phoenix Suns (No. 10) all have bigger immediate needs than the Warriors, who will get a healthy Steph Curry and Klay Thompson back next season. New York and Phoenix also have an extra first-round pick, so trading back with either team could also give Golden State an additional chance to refresh its roster with young talent.

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The Minnesota Timberwolves' selection at No. 1 overall will shape the direction of the draft, and the Warriors are in an advantageous position to capitalize in the top pick's aftermath. There's a good chance a player they really like will be available, and maybe even one a team likes enough to offer an enticing trade package.

The Warriors are wise to prepare for anything, especially in a draft that looks like just about everything is on the table. 

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