Revisiting the worst trade in Golden State Warriors franchise history

In 1980, prior to the NBA Draft, the Golden State Warriors made a regrettable decision that would impact their franchise history. To acquire the top overall pick, they traded away Robert Parish and the third pick in exchange for the number one selection and the thirteenth pick from the Boston Celtics. This move allowed Golden State to draft Joe Barry Carroll, a seven-season center who netted one All-Star appearance during the 1986-87 season.

With the thirteenth pick, the Warriors secured Rickey Brown, who spent five seasons in the NBA, two and a half of which were with the Warriors. Parish's career was illustrious, winning four NBA titles, including three with the Boston Celtics, and making two All-NBA and nine All-Star appearances. Ironically, the pick the Warriors received, Boston's third overall pick, evolved into Kevin McHale, who also enjoyed a successful career with the Celtics.

McHale won three titles, earned seven All-Star appearances, and claimed two Sixth Man of the Year Awards. Post-trade, the Warriors experienced a six-year playoff drought, which began in the 1986-87 season, and lasted until the 2006-07 campaign. This unfavorable trade stands as one of the most regrettable decisions in the Golden State Warriors' franchise history.