The Golden State Warriors are set to navigate uncharted waters this offseason. For the first time since 2011, the team will move forward without guard Klay Thompson, who joined the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal in July. As the Warriors look ahead to the new season, they retain franchise cornerstones Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and coach Steve Kerr, but the lack of Thompson's presence marks a significant shift in the team's dynamic.
Last season ended on a sour note for the Warriors, who were eliminated by the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament. In response, they have undertaken a series of strategic roster moves to retool their lineup. Significant additions include Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton. Hield, known for his scoring ability, expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Warriors, noting, "I watched these guys play my whole [time] in college, even in the pros. When they play, they are a fun team to watch because of the ball movement and the way Steph, Draymond, Andrew [Wiggins], and the way coach Steve [Kerr] coaches. I just feel that it's a good fit, but everything takes time to learn it. It shouldn't be that hard."
The Warriors also explored trade opportunities to further enhance their roster. Talks with the Utah Jazz regarding All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen, however, stalled due to the high asking price, which included second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski along with multiple draft picks. The Warriors ultimately decided to halt negotiations, deeming the potential deal unbalanced. The organization remains cautious about parting with key young talents like Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga without an overwhelming offer.
Financial concerns have always been a significant factor in the Warriors' decision-making process. The team has incurred a whopping $677 million in luxury tax penalties since the 2013-14 season. To mitigate future penalties, the Warriors released Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed, allowing them to reposition below the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green's substantial influence within the organizational framework remains vital as the team navigates these financial waters.
Curry, who has until the summer to extend his contract for an additional year for up to $62.2 million, echoed his commitment to winning, stating, "I want to win. Let's put it this way, it's a long-winded way of saying that if it is a situation where you're a bottom feeder and it's just because you want to stay there, I'd have a hard time with that. But I don't think that's going to be the reality."
The younger brigade, featuring Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, is expected to assume larger roles this season. Both players are eligible for five-year extensions in October and could become unrestricted free agents if they do not sign extensions after next season. The potential deal for Kuminga could be worth up to $224 million, reflecting the team's high expectations for his future contributions.
Off the court, the Warriors are addressing changes within their coaching staff following the departure of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic. The team has recruited Terry Stotts, known for his offensive expertise, and Jerry Stackhouse, who brings defensive acumen honed over five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt. A front office source described the situation as "actually really fun," highlighting the optimism within the organization despite the significant shifts.
Mike Dunleavy, who is heavily involved in the team's roster decisions, emphasized the organization’s faith in its young talents: “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them.” This confidence in the team's drafted players represents a cornerstone of the Warriors' strategy moving forward.
As the Warriors embark on this new chapter, they are carefully balancing the integration of new talent with the retention of key players and financial prudence. The upcoming season promises to test the resilience and adaptability of the franchise, but with Curry and Green at the helm, and an energetic mix of veteran and young talent, the Warriors are poised to face the challenges head-on.