For the first time since 2011, the Golden State Warriors will enter the offseason without guard Klay Thompson. His move to the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal this past July has left a notable void in the roster, marking the end of an era for the team that has seen multiple championships with Thompson in the lineup.
However, the Warriors still boast a core featuring Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and the tactical acumen of coach Steve Kerr. The team’s disappointing loss to the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament last season has triggered significant roster reconfigurations. New additions such as Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton are expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the squad.
New Faces, New Hopes
Buddy Hield, known for his scoring prowess, expressed enthusiasm about joining Golden State. "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," Hield noted.
The Warriors' front office has also been active in trade discussions, notably with the Utah Jazz regarding All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen. High asking prices, including the potential loss of second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski and multiple draft picks, have resulted in stalled negotiations. The Warriors deemed the deal unbalanced and halted further talks. As General Manager Mike Dunleavy affirmed, “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them.”
Navigating Financial Waters
Golden State has been strategic in maneuvering around the expensive luxury tax penalties that have cost them $677 million since the 2013-14 season. Releasing Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed was a key move to bring the team's payroll under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold. This financial prudence reflects the team's focus on long-term sustainability.
Stephen Curry, who continues to have a substantial influence within the organization alongside Draymond Green, has until the summer to extend his contract for an extra year worth up to $62.2 million. Meanwhile, younger players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are anticipated to take on larger roles this season. Both are eligible for five-year extensions in October and could become unrestricted free agents if they choose not to sign extensions after next season. Notably, Kuminga’s potential deal could reach up to $224 million.
Coaching Changes and Future Outlook
The Warriors have also seen shifts within their coaching staff. Following the departure of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic, the team has brought in Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts is renowned for his offensive expertise, while Stackhouse brings defensive acumen crafted over his five-year tenure as head coach at Vanderbilt.
Despite the transitions and challenges, the atmosphere within the organization remains optimistic. A front office source described the situation as “actually really fun,” capturing a sense of excitement about the Warriors' future. Stephen Curry echoed this sentiment, emphasizing his commitment to winning, "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 pivotal offseason, the mix of established veterans and promising young talent presents a balanced approach to reclaiming their position as serious contenders. The strategic reconfiguration of their roster, coupled with agile financial management, aims to lay a foundation for sustained success. The presence of Curry and Green, combined with the infusion of new talent and coaching prowess, sets the stage for a compelling season.