Oct 30, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers point guard Steve Blake (5) drives in against Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry (30) during the second quarter at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
With the trade deadline quickly approaching, many expect the Lakers to be one of the biggest names involved in numerous deals. With a plethora of one-year deals and nearly all of them being role players, teams could look toward the Lakers for a key piece in hopes of a playoff push.
Steve Blake has been a name mentioned as a possible options for many teams looking for a point guard to come off the bench. Blake, an 11-year veteran of the league, could provide valuable experience to a young team. One of the team’s that could be looking his way might be the Golden State Warriors.
Longtime friend of the show @sam_amick of USA Today throws out Steve Blake as one name #Warriors might grab at trade deadline. Speculating.
— Mark Kreidler (@MarkKreidler) February 17, 2014
After looking Jarrett Jack this summer in free agency, the Warriors have found it hard to replace his production. While Blake isn’t the same player Jack was, he could provide them leadership for a squad that still has many young members. Considering his play style and abilities – knock-down three-point shooter and gritty defensive player – Blake is likely to be courted by more than a few teams.
The biggest question mark surrounding Blake is injury concerns. Blake battled for a handful of games through an elbow injury early in the season before electing for surgery. However, Blake may have rushed back from the injury he’s dealt with pain in the elbow since his return. Nevertheless, no one can doubt Blake’s warrior spirit, which is attractable to teams looking his way.