Warriors Navigate New Era Sans Klay Thompson
The Golden State Warriors are heading into an unfamiliar offseason, facing a future without guard Klay Thompson for the first time since 2011. Thompson, a cornerstone of the team's recent successes, joined the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal that sent ripples through the NBA in July.
Despite Thompson's departure, the Warriors' foundation remains strong. Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and head coach Steve Kerr are still at the helm, looking to steer the team back to championship contention after a disappointing exit in the play-in tournament against the Sacramento Kings last season. The Warriors have been proactive in reconfiguring their roster, bringing in key additions like Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton, aiming to inject new life into the squad.
Buddy Hield, known for his scoring prowess, seems particularly excited about joining the Warriors. "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.
A Splash Brothers Reunion?
The Warriors were actively pursuing another high-profile addition to their roster, engaging in trade talks with the Utah Jazz for All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen. However, these discussions hit a snag due to the Jazz's high asking price, which included second-year guard Brandin Podziemski and multiple draft picks. Golden State deemed the potential deal unbalanced and chose to halt negotiations. The front office remains cautious about parting with key young players like Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga without an overwhelming offer.
Mike Dunleavy, the team's general manager, reiterated the Warriors' commitment to their young talent, stating, “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them.”
Financial Maneuvering
The Warriors have been strategic in managing their finances to avoid onerous luxury tax penalties. This was exemplified by their decision to release Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed, helping the team reposition under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold. Over the past decade, the Warriors have incurred a staggering $677 million in penalties, a figure they are keen to curtail moving forward.
Stephen Curry and Draymond Green continue to wield significant influence within the organization. Curry, who has until the summer to extend his contract for an additional year worth up to $62.2 million, remains optimistic yet realistic about the team's 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 said.
Embracing Youth
The Warriors are also banking on the development of their younger players. Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are poised to assume 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, in particular, is seen as a future star, with his potential deal projected to be worth up to $224 million.
Changes in Coaching Staff
In addition to player movement, the Warriors' coaching staff has seen significant changes. Kenny Atkinson departed for Cleveland, and the organization faced the tragic passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic. To fill these voids, the Warriors have recruited Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts brings a reputation for offensive expertise, while Stackhouse, who honed his defensive acumen over five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt, is expected to bolster the team's defensive strategies.
The front office remains upbeat despite these transitions. One source within the organization described the situation as "actually really fun," signaling a resilient and optimistic atmosphere as they navigate these changes.
With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, the Warriors are cautiously optimistic about their prospects. In a league where dynasties can rise and fall swiftly, Golden State aims to ensure that their legacy of excellence endures.