The Golden State Warriors are navigating a transformative offseason, one that will define their path forward in the rapidly evolving NBA landscape. For the first time since 2011, the team is moving on without the familiar presence of guard Klay Thompson, who joined the Dallas Mavericks in a high-profile sign-and-trade deal this July.
Despite the significant shakeup, the Warriors still retain their cornerstone pieces in Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and head coach Steve Kerr, aiming to remain competitive. Last season's exit in the play-in tournament at the hands of the Sacramento Kings has left the team strategizing new ways to bolster their chances this time around.
New Faces on the Roster
The Warriors have introduced a series of fresh talents to their lineup, including Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton. Among these additions, Hield is expected to bring a crucial scoring boost. Speaking about his transition to Golden State, Hield remarked, "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."
Trade Talks and Financial Maneuvering
Golden State's front office, led by General Manager Mike Dunleavy, has been exploring various trade opportunities to continue enhancing the roster. Notably, they engaged in discussions with the Utah Jazz for All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen. However, these negotiations hit a roadblock due to the Jazz's high asking price, which demanded the inclusion of second-year guard Brandin Podziemski and a bevy of draft picks. Determining the deal to be unbalanced, the Warriors stepped away from the table. Dunleavy emphasized their commitment to their young talent, stating, “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them.”
Avoiding onerous luxury tax penalties has been another priority for the Warriors. The release of Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed allowed the team to reposition under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold. Since the 2013-14 season, the Warriors have amassed $677 million in penalties, underscoring the importance of their recent cost-saving measures.
Young Blood Poised for Larger Roles
As the Warriors brace for the new season, emerging players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are positioned to take on expanded responsibilities. Both are up for five-year extensions in October and could become unrestricted free agents if they do not sign new deals post next season. Kuminga, in particular, could sign a contract worth up to $224 million, reflecting his substantial potential.
Stephen Curry, whose profound influence within the organization persists, has the option to extend his contract for an additional year worth up to $62.2 million. Speaking candidly about his aspirations, Curry expressed a relentless drive to win: "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."
Changes in the Coaching Staff
Off the court, the Warriors are also making adjustments within their coaching ranks. Following the departure of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the tragic passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic, the team has brought in Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts is renowned for his offensive sagacity, while Stackhouse brings a defensive acumen honed over five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt. Their expertise will be pivotal as the Warriors adapt to life without Thompson and look to integrate their new players.
As the Warriors gear up for the forthcoming season, the atmosphere within the organization remains cautiously optimistic. A front office source encapsulated the spirit of the times, noting the situation is "actually really fun," highlighting a sense of renewal and opportunity amid change.
With Curry and Green steering the ship alongside a retooled roster and a refreshed coaching staff, Golden State aims to craft a new chapter while honoring the legacy that has made them perennial contenders over the past decade.