The Golden State Warriors are entering a new era this offseason, navigating the significant shift of playing without guard Klay Thompson for the first time since 2011. Thompson, a cornerstone of the Warriors’ dynasty alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, joined the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal earlier this July. While Thompson's departure marks the end of an era, the Warriors are determined to adapt and compete at the highest level.
Despite Thompson's exit, the Warriors retain key figures like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and coach Steve Kerr. Last season, the team faced disappointment, losing to the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament. However, the Warriors have aggressively reconfigured their roster, adding players like Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton.
Roster Adjustments and Additions
The acquisition of Buddy Hield, known for his scoring prowess, signals a strategic emphasis on bolstering the team's offensive firepower. Reflecting on his integration into the team, Hield expressed optimism: "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."
The Warriors have also explored adding more top-tier talent, including engaging in discussions with the Utah Jazz regarding All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen. Nonetheless, these trade talks stalled due to Utah's high asking price, which included second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski and multiple draft picks. The Warriors halted negotiations, deeming the potential deal unbalanced and not worth parting with their key young players.
Youthful Potential and Luxury Tax Maneuvering
Golden State is also keen on preserving its younger core. Players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are expected to assume larger roles this season. These young talents are eligible for five-year extensions in October and could become unrestricted free agents if they do not sign beyond next season. For Kuminga, a potential deal could be valued up to $224 million. Mike Dunleavy, speaking about the young talents, emphasized: “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them.”
Recognizing the financial complexity of maintaining a highly competitive roster, the Warriors have made astute moves to navigate the daunting luxury tax penalties. The team has incurred an astonishing $677 million in penalties since the 2013-14 season. As part of their fiscal strategy, releasing Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed enabled the team to reposition under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold.
Leadership and Coaching Changes
Stephen Curry and Draymond Green continue to exert substantial influence within the organizational framework. Curry, who remains the face of the franchise, has until the summer to extend his contract for an additional year, which could be worth up to $62.2 million. Reflecting on the team's competitive spirit, Curry 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."
In addition to player adjustments, the Warriors are addressing essential changes within their coaching staff. Following the departure of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic, the team has recruited Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts, known for his offensive expertise, and Stackhouse, with his defensive acumen from his tenure as head coach at Vanderbilt, are solid additions. This duality aims to reinforce both ends of the floor, ensuring balance and strategic depth.
Looking Ahead
The Warriors' front office views the ongoing adjustments and the influx of new talent positively, with a source stating the situation is "actually really fun." As the Warriors chart their path forward, they remain committed to blending their seasoned core with promising young talent, all while navigating the complexities of the luxury tax and maintaining their competitive edge. The upcoming season presents challenges but also opportunities for the Warriors to reassert themselves as a powerhouse in the league's ever-evolving landscape.