For the first time since 2011, the Golden State Warriors face an offseason without guard Klay Thompson on their roster. Thompson joined the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal in July, marking the end of an era for the Warriors. Despite this monumental shift, the team still retains core figures like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and head coach Steve Kerr, who continue to anchor the organization.
The Warriors are adapting to these changes by reconfiguring their lineup with new additions such as Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton. Hield, known for his scoring prowess, expressed optimism about his fit with the team, stating, "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."
Although the Warriors have sought to bolster their roster even further, trade talks with the Utah Jazz for All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen stalled. The high asking price, which included second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski and multiple draft picks, proved to be a sticking point. Golden State halted negotiations, deeming the potential deal unbalanced. The organization remains hesitant to part with key young players like Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga without an overwhelming offer.
Financial considerations have also influenced the team's maneuvering. The Warriors have been carefully managing their payroll to avoid burdensome luxury tax penalties. By releasing Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed, the team repositioned itself under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold. Since the 2013-14 season, the Warriors have incurred a staggering $677 million in penalties, necessitating prudent financial decisions.
Despite these changes, the influence of Curry and Green remains substantial within the organizational framework. Curry has until the summer to extend his contract for an extra year worth up to $62.2 million, further solidifying his role as the franchise cornerstone.
Young Talent on the Rise
Younger players such as Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are poised to assume larger roles this season. Both are eligible for five-year extensions in October and could become unrestricted free agents if they do not sign extensions after next season. Kuminga, in particular, has the potential for a deal worth up to $224 million, underscoring the team's belief in his future contributions. "We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them," said Mike Dunleavy, emphasizing the team's commitment to nurturing its young talent.
Coaching Staff Changes
Changes within the coaching staff have also been a key focus for the Warriors. Following the departure of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic, the team has recruited Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts is known for his offensive expertise, while Stackhouse brings defensive acumen honed over five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt. These additions aim to complement Kerr's coaching style and fortify the team's competitiveness.
The Warriors face the upcoming season with cautious optimism. Front office sources describe the situation as "actually really fun," reflecting a positive outlook despite the challenges. Stephen Curry, ever the competitor, summed up the team’s enduring spirit: "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."
As the Warriors navigate this period of transition, the blend of experienced leadership and promising young talent positions the team to remain a formidable force in the NBA. The strategic decisions made during this offseason will shape the franchise's trajectory, aiming to sustain its winning legacy while adapting to new dynamics.