The Golden State Warriors are entering a transformative offseason, notably without guard Klay Thompson for the first time since 2011. Thompson's departure to the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal in July marks a pivotal shift for the team. Despite this, the Warriors continue to hold onto key figures such as Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and head coach Steve Kerr as they recalibrate for the upcoming season.
Last season saw the Warriors falter in the play-in tournament against the Sacramento Kings, signaling an urgent need to reconfigure their roster. The addition of players like Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton are part of this reconfiguration, with Hield particularly being brought in for his scoring prowess.
Regarding team chemistry and fit, Hield offered positive sentiments, 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."
Roster Maneuverings and Financial Prudence
The Warriors haven't stopped there. Discussions with the Utah Jazz regarding All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen reached a standstill due to the high asking price, which included second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski and multiple draft picks. Golden State ultimately decided that the deal was too unbalanced to proceed.
In navigating the complexities of luxury tax penalties, the Warriors have made significant financial maneuvers. Releasing Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed allowed the team to position itself under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold. Since the 2013-14 season, the Warriors have incurred an eye-watering $677 million in penalties, a figure the organization is keen to mitigate moving forward.
Stephen Curry and Draymond Green continue to be influential pillars within the team. Curry, who has until the summer to extend his contract for an additional year worth up to $62.2 million, has made it clear he’s committed 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," Curry stated.
Young Talent Poised for Greater Roles
The upcoming season presents a beacon of opportunity for younger players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, who are poised to assume larger roles. Both are eligible for five-year extensions in October and could become unrestricted free agents if they do not sign extensions after next season. Particularly, Kuminga’s potential deal could be worth up to $224 million.
Mike Dunleavy's words encapsulate the team's investment in its youth: “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them.” With the team's confidence placed in these younger players, the Warriors seem ready to embrace a blend of seasoned veterans and budding talent.
Coaching Staff Adjustments
On the coaching front, changes have been inevitable following the departure of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic. To fill these gaps, the team has recruited veterans like Terry Stotts, renowned for his offensive acumen, and Jerry Stackhouse, whose five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt have honed his defensive expertise.
As the Warriors gear up for the coming season, the blend of veteran leadership, promising young talent, and strategic financial management sets the stage for a compelling narrative. While the challenge of integrating new players and adjusting to key departures looms large, the organization’s actions indicate a methodical approach aimed squarely at returning to championship contention. In the words of a front office source, the situation is "actually really fun"—a sentiment that underscores the optimism circulating around the team's future.