For the first time since 2011, the Golden State Warriors enter an offseason without guard Klay Thompson on their roster. The four-time NBA champion joined the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal in July. This pivotal move marks a significant shift for the Warriors, who still hold stalwarts Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and coach Steve Kerr.
A New Era Begins
Thompson's departure underscores the evolving dynamics within the Warriors organization. The franchise, which lost to the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament last season, has since been actively reconfiguring its roster. Notable additions include Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton, aiming to fill the void left by Thompson.
Buddy Hield, brought in for his scoring prowess, is expected to amplify the Warriors' offensive production in the post-Thompson era. “I watched these guys play my whole [time] in college, even in the pros,” said Hield. “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.”
Strategic Trade Talks
The Warriors recently engaged in discussions with the Utah Jazz regarding All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen. However, these talks stalled due to the Jazz's high asking price of second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski and multiple draft picks. Golden State, valuing its young talent, halted negotiations, deeming the potential deal unbalanced. Maintaining a long-term strategic vision, the Warriors are cautious about parting with key players like Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga without an overwhelming offer.
“We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them,” stated Mike Dunleavy. The organization is holding tight to its youth, recognizing their potential value for future success.
Financial Decisions and Flexibility
On the financial front, the Warriors have been maneuvering to avoid burdensome luxury tax penalties. Releasing Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed allowed the team to reposition under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold. This move offers a degree of financial flexibility that had eluded the Warriors, who have incurred $677 million in penalties since the 2013-14 season.
A front office source noted, the situation is "actually really fun," signaling optimism as the organization manages its cap space effectively.
Performance and Leadership
Despite the roster changes, the Warriors' commitment to excellence remains unchanged. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green continue to have a substantial influence within the organizational framework. Curry, who has until the summer to extend his contract for an extra year up to $62.2 million, remains focused on 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 affirmed.
In addition to Curry and Green's leadership, younger players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are poised to assume larger roles this season. Both players 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, exemplifying his anticipated impact on the team's future.
Coaching Staff Adjustments
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, the team has recruited Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts, known for his offensive expertise, fits seamlessly into Steve Kerr's coaching model. Stackhouse, with his defensive acumen honed over five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt, will bolster the team's tactical approach on that end.
The Golden State Warriors are navigating an offseason of significant transitions, yet their vision remains clear: a calculated blend of maintaining their core while infusing the roster with new talent and securing financial sustainability. With Stephen Curry and Draymond Green at the helm, and contributions from promising young players, the Warriors are optimistic about the season ahead, embracing change while steadfastly pursuing competitive excellence.