The Golden State Warriors are stepping into a new era, marking the offseason without guard Klay Thompson for the first time since his arrival in 2011. Thompson's move to the Dallas Mavericks via a sign-and-trade deal in July has compelled the Warriors to reconfigure their roster and strategy. Despite his absence, the nucleus of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and head coach Steve Kerr remains intact, providing a stable foundation as the team aims to rejuvenate its championship aspirations.
New Additions and Roster Changes
Golden State has been proactive in filling the void left by Thompson by acquiring players like Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton. Hield, in particular, was targeted for his scoring prowess, adding a new dimension to the Warriors' offensive scheme. His enthusiasm about joining the Warriors is evident. "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," Hield remarked. "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
The Warriors were also engaged in discussions with the Utah Jazz regarding All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen. However, the talks stalled over the high asking price, which included second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski along with multiple draft picks. Golden State ultimately deemed the potential deal unbalanced and halted negotiations. The team remains cautious about parting with key players like Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga without receiving an overwhelming offer in return.
Additionally, financial prudence has been a guiding principle for the Warriors this offseason. The franchise has incurred $677 million in luxury tax penalties since the 2013-14 season, prompting a series of strategic moves to avoid further financial strain. Releasing Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed allowed the team to reposition below the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold.
Role of Young Players
This season, younger players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are expected to play larger roles. Both are eligible for five-year extensions in October and could become unrestricted free agents if they do not agree to extensions after next season. Kuminga's potential deal could be worth up to $224 million. General Manager Mike Dunleavy expressed confidence in their development, stating, “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them.”
Coaching Changes and New Dynamics
Changes within the coaching staff have also been a focal point. The departure of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic have led to the recruitment of Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts, known for his offensive expertise, and Stackhouse, with his defensive acumen from his tenure at Vanderbilt, are expected to bring fresh perspectives to the team’s strategy.
Leadership Continuity
Stephen Curry and Draymond Green continue to wield significant influence within the Warriors' organizational framework. Curry, who has the option to extend his contract for an extra year up to $62.2 million by the summer, remains committed to competing at the highest level. "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 emphasized.
The front office appears to share Curry's optimism, with one source noting the situation is "actually really fun."