For the first time since 2011, the Golden State Warriors are heading into an offseason without the familiar presence of Klay Thompson, who joined the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal in July. This significant change marks the end of an era for the Warriors, but the team is actively retooling its roster and strategy to remain competitive in the upcoming season.
Reshaping the Roster
Despite Thompson's departure, the Warriors' core remains intact with superstar Stephen Curry, defensive stalwart Draymond Green, and head coach Steve Kerr continuing to lead the charge. The team fell short last season, losing to the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament, prompting a reevaluation and subsequent reconfiguration of their lineup. Key additions include Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton, players acquired to bolster various weaknesses.
Hield, known for his scoring prowess, expressed his excitement about joining the Warriors, stating, "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
Trade talks were initiated with the Utah Jazz regarding All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen. However, these talks stalled due to the high asking price, which included second-year guard and All-Rookie selection Brandin Podziemski and multiple draft picks. The Warriors deemed the potential deal as unbalanced and opted to halt negotiations.
Golden State remains cautious about parting with key young players like Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga without an overwhelming offer. Mike Dunleavy voiced the team's sentiment: “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them.”
Financially, the Warriors have been diligent in maneuvering to avoid excessive luxury tax penalties, which have totaled $677 million since the 2013-14 season. Releasing veteran guard Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed helped the team dip below the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold, providing more financial flexibility.
Leadership and Potential Contract Extensions
The influence of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green within the organization remains substantial. Curry, in particular, has a significant decision looming as he has until the summer to extend his contract for an additional year, potentially worth up to $62.2 million. Both Kuminga and Moses Moody, younger players poised to take on larger roles this season, are eligible for five-year extensions in October. If they do not sign, they could become unrestricted free agents after next season. Kuminga's extension could be valued up to a staggering $224 million.
Curry’s commitment to the franchise's success was evident when he remarked, "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."
Coaching Adjustments
The coaching staff has also seen significant changes with Kenny Atkinson departing for Cleveland and the unfortunate passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic. To fill these gaps, the Warriors have recruited Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts brings a wealth of offensive expertise, while Stackhouse adds defensive acumen honed over five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt.
A New Chapter
This offseason represents a period of transition and opportunity for Golden State. While the absence of a veteran presence like Klay Thompson marks a shift, the Warriors are actively seeking to maintain their competitive edge. According to a front office source, the evolving situation is "actually really fun," reflecting the organization's optimism and readiness to tackle the challenges ahead.
The road forward may be lined with uncertainties, but the Warriors’ combination of experienced leadership, promising young talent, and strategic financial management sets the stage for a potentially successful season of adaptation and growth.