The Golden State Warriors are navigating a transformative offseason, entering an era without Klay Thompson on their roster for the first time since 2011. Thompson's departure to the Dallas Mavericks via a sign-and-trade deal in July marks the end of an era, leaving the Warriors to retool and adapt to new challenges.
Despite the significant change, the Warriors still retain their core pillars: Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and coach Steve Kerr. This trio remains the backbone of the franchise as they aim to build around their current roster and avoid a slide into mediocrity. Reflecting on the team's prospects, Stephen Curry offered a candid insight into his mindset: "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."
Last season ended on a disappointing note for the Warriors, with a loss to the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament. This outcome necessitated a reassessment of the roster, leading to strategic additions and departures. Notably, the Warriors have acquired Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton, each bringing unique strengths to the table. Hield, in particular, was brought in to enhance the team’s scoring capabilities. Speaking on his new environment, 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."
In an attempt to bolster the roster further, the Warriors engaged in trade discussions with the Utah Jazz for All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen. However, negotiations hit a snag due to the high asking price, which included second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski and multiple draft picks. Golden State ultimately deemed the proposed deal unbalanced and halted talks. They're maintaining a cautious stance on parting with key players like Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga, unless an overwhelmingly favorable offer emerges. As General Manager Mike Dunleavy articulated, "We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them."
Financially, the Warriors have been maneuvering to mitigate the impact of the luxury tax, a crucial factor given their accumulated $677 million in penalties since the 2013-14 season. The decision to release Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed was a strategic move to reposition under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold. These financial adjustments are essential for maintaining flexibility while continuing to build a competitive squad around key players.
The team is also bracing for potential changes in its younger cohort. Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are set to play larger roles this season, with both eligible for five-year extensions in October. Should either player not sign an extension after next season, they could become unrestricted free agents. Particularly, Kuminga's potential deal could be worth up to $224 million, highlighting the significant investment the Warriors are considering in their young talents.
Off the court, the Warriors are adjusting to changes within their coaching staff. The departures of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the untimely passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic have led to the recruitment of Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts brings a wealth of offensive expertise, while Stackhouse contributes a robust defensive acumen shaped during his tenure as head coach at Vanderbilt. This reshuffling aims to maintain the high standards established under Kerr's leadership.
As the Warriors look forward to the upcoming season, the organization remains optimistic yet pragmatic about the road ahead. A source within the front office described the current situation as "actually really fun," encapsulating the blend of excitement and challenge in remolding a team with championship aspirations.
Stephen Curry and Draymond Green continue to exert substantial influence within the organizational framework, ensuring that the team's culture of competitiveness and excellence endures. Curry, with the option to extend his contract for an extra year up to $62.2 million by the summer, remains a critical figure in the Warriors' quest for success. Meanwhile, the integration of new players and coaching staff signifies a dynamic phase for Golden State, poised to tackle the upcoming season with renewed vigor and strategic intent.