What's Happening?
The Santa Cruz Warriors, the NBA G League affiliate of the Golden State Warriors, have acquired guard Deivon Smith from the College Park Skyhawks. This trade involved the Warriors giving up a first-round pick from Rip City and a second-round pick from South
Bay via Long Island in the 2026 NBA G League Draft. Smith, who did not make the Atlanta Hawks' opening night roster, had been playing with the Skyhawks, where he averaged 8.1 points and 4.3 assists per game. Since joining Santa Cruz, Smith has made a significant impact, averaging 29.0 points and 7.0 assists per game, with impressive shooting percentages of 51.4% from the field and 60% from three-point range in his first two games.
Why It's Important?
This acquisition is significant for the Santa Cruz Warriors as it strengthens their roster with a promising player who has already demonstrated his potential. Deivon Smith's performance could enhance the team's competitiveness in the G League, potentially leading to better results and increased attention from the Golden State Warriors' main team. For Smith, this move represents an opportunity to showcase his skills and possibly earn a spot in the NBA. The trade also reflects the strategic moves teams make within the G League to develop talent and improve their chances of success.
What's Next?
The Santa Cruz Warriors will likely continue to monitor Deivon Smith's performance closely, as his early contributions suggest he could be a valuable asset. If Smith maintains his current level of play, he may attract interest from the Golden State Warriors or other NBA teams looking for dynamic guard options. The team's management will also evaluate the impact of this trade on their overall strategy and future draft picks, considering how Smith's development aligns with their long-term goals.
