The Golden State Warriors face a transformative offseason, adjusting their roster and strategy after parting ways with longtime guard Klay Thompson. For the first time since 2011, Thompson will not don the Warriors' jersey, having joined the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal this past July. However, Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and head coach Steve Kerr remain at the core of this newly restructured team.
Revamping the Roster
The Warriors experienced a disappointing end to their last season, faltering against the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament. Determined to bounce back, the franchise has made significant roster changes, bringing in players like Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton. Hield, known for his scoring prowess, expressed enthusiasm about joining the team, saying, "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."
In an attempt to acquire All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen from the Utah Jazz, the Warriors entered trade discussions but found the asking price—second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski and multiple draft picks—too steep. Brandin Podziemski is highly valued by the Warriors organization, which has shown caution in parting with key players without overwhelming offers. Golden State deemed the potential deal unbalanced and halted negotiations.
Financial Maneuvering
The Warriors have been maneuvering to avoid burdensome luxury tax penalties, a significant consideration given the $677 million in penalties they have incurred since the 2013-14 season. Part of this financial restructuring included releasing Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed, allowing the team to reposition under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold.
Stephen Curry and Draymond Green continue to exert substantial influence within the organization, maintaining their roles as key leaders. Curry, in particular, has until the summer to extend his contract for an additional year, potentially worth up to $62.2 million. Meanwhile, younger players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are poised to assume larger roles this season. Both Kuminga and Moody are eligible for five-year extensions in October, with Kuminga's potential deal worth up to $224 million. Should they not secure these extensions, they could become unrestricted free agents after the next season.
Coaching Changes
The Warriors are also adapting to changes within their coaching staff. The departure of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the untimely passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic have prompted the recruitment of Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts is renowned for his offensive expertise, while Stackhouse brings defensive acumen honed over five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt.
Mike Dunleavy, a prominent figure within the organization, voiced the team's commitment to their young talents, saying, “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them.” This sentiment is echoed by a front office source who described the evolving situation as "actually really fun."
A Determined Outlook
While the past season's outcome was less than ideal, there is a palpable sense of determination within the Warriors' camp. Stephen Curry emphasized his unwavering quest for victory, 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."
As the Warriors navigate this period of transition, their strategy appears to focus on a balanced mix of leveraging veteran experience and nurturing young talent, all while navigating the financial constraints of the modern NBA landscape. With their eyes set firmly on success in the upcoming season, the Golden State Warriors are poised to redefine their legacy once again.