The upcoming NBA season heralds significant changes for the Golden State Warriors, a team known for its dynastic success over the better part of the last decade. For the first time since 2011, Klay Thompson won't be suiting up for the squad, as the sharpshooting guard joins the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal concluded in July. Despite his departure, the Warriors are far from dismantled, retaining foundational pieces such as Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and coach Steve Kerr.
The Warriors faced a disappointing conclusion to the previous season, bowing out to the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament. The team has undertaken a significant roster overhaul in response, bringing in versatile players like Kyle Anderson, prolific scorer Buddy Hield, and multifaceted guard De'Anthony Melton. Hield expressed his enthusiasm for joining the team, 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."
The Warriors also explored bolstering their lineup further with All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen from the Utah Jazz. However, high demands for second-year guard and All-Rookie Team member Brandin Podziemski, coupled with multiple draft picks, led the Warriors to deem the potential trade unbalanced and ultimately halt negotiations. The franchise remains cautious about parting with promising young players like Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga unless overwhelmed by the offer, reaffirmed by Mike Dunleavy's comment, “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them.”
Financial maneuvering has been a significant focus for Golden State, aiming to steer clear of crippling luxury tax penalties. The team strategically released Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed, allowing them to reposition under the critical $178.7 million luxury tax threshold. Since the 2013-14 season, the Warriors have incurred a staggering $677 million in penalties, an eye-watering figure that underscores the importance of financial prudence moving forward.
Stephen Curry and Draymond Green continue to wield considerable influence within the organization. Curry, whose contract extension could see him earning up to $62.2 million, remains a central figure both on and off the court. "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 remarked, signaling his commitment to sustained competitiveness.
Younger talents such as Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are poised to play more significant roles in the coming season. Both players are eligible for five-year extensions in October and could become unrestricted free agents if extensions aren't secured post-season. Notably, Kuminga's potential deal could weigh in at an impressive $224 million, a testament to his substantial promise and the franchise's investment in its youth.
The team is also addressing shifts within the coaching staff, following the departure of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the unfortunate passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic. The Warriors have welcomed new experts in Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse to their coaching cadre. Stotts brings renowned offensive expertise, while Stackhouse offers significant defensive acumen honed during his five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt.
A source within the Warriors' front office described the evolving situation as "actually really fun," reflecting a sense of optimism and enthusiasm regarding the team's reconfiguration. With key players retained, promising additions to the roster, and strategic financial decisions, the Warriors are positioned to navigate the upcoming season with renewed vigor and competitiveness.
As the new NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on how these changes shape Golden State's pursuit of reclaiming their championship pedigree. The mixture of veteran leadership, burgeoning young talent, and fresh coaching perspectives creates a compelling narrative for a team eager to return to the pinnacle of professional basketball.