The Golden State Warriors are heading into a transformative offseason, marking the first time since 2011 they will be without guard Klay Thompson. This change comes after Thompson’s departure to the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal in July. Despite losing a key player, the Warriors have not stood still.
A New Look for the Warriors
This offseason, the Warriors reconfigured their roster, bringing in new faces like Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton as they aim to remain competitive. Notably, Hield was signed for his scoring prowess, adding a much-needed offensive boost. "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 remarked.
However, the reshuffling hasn't been devoid of challenges. Discussions with the Utah Jazz regarding All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen stalled, largely due to the high asking price involving second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski along with multiple draft picks. The Warriors halted negotiations, deeming the potential deal unbalanced. They remain cautious about parting with key players like Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga without an overwhelming offer.
Financial Constraints and Strategic Moves
Managing their finances, the Warriors have been maneuvering to avoid the burdensome luxury tax penalties that have plagued them in the past. Since the 2013-14 season, the team has incurred an astonishing $677 million in penalties. In a strategic move, the team released Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed, allowing them to reposition under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold. These decisions are crucial as the Warriors aim to maintain financial flexibility while staying competitive.
Core Leadership and Emerging Talent
Amid these changes, the Warriors still boast the core leadership of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, two players who continue to exert substantial influence within the organization. Curry, who has until the summer to extend his contract for an extra year up to $62.2 million, is particularly vocal about his ambitions. "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 asserted.
Furthermore, the Warriors are banking on younger players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody to step up and take on larger roles this season. Both are eligible for five-year extensions in October and could become unrestricted free agents if they do not sign extensions after next season. Kuminga's potential deal could be worth up to $224 million, underscoring the team's belief in his capabilities. Mike Dunleavy echoed this sentiment, saying, “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them.”
Changes in the Coaching Staff
The Warriors are also addressing changes within their coaching staff following the departure of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic. To fill these gaps, the team has recruited Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts, known for his offensive expertise, and Stackhouse, who has defensive acumen honed over five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt, are expected to bring fresh perspectives and strategies to the team.
The Path Forward
The overall sentiment within the Warriors' front office is surprisingly optimistic. A source described the situation as "actually really fun." Despite the significant changes and challenges ahead, the Warriors are preparing for a new chapter with strategic roster additions, careful financial planning, and a blend of experienced leadership and emerging talents. With Stephen Curry and Draymond Green at the helm and promising young players ready to rise, the Warriors seem poised for an intriguing season ahead.