For the first time since Klay Thompson was drafted in 2011, the Golden State Warriors are entering an offseason without their sharpshooting guard on the roster. Thompson's departure to the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal this past July marks the end of an era for the Warriors, leading to substantial changes and new dynamics within the team.
The New Look Warriors
The Warriors, however, are not entirely bereft of familiar faces. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green continue to anchor the team, with head coach Steve Kerr orchestrating from the sidelines. Despite last season's disappointment, when the Warriors fell to the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament, the team has made significant roster changes in an attempt to rejuvenate their lineup.
Among the new additions are Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton. Hield, known for his scoring prowess, is particularly enthusiastic about his new environment, 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."
Roster Shake-Ups and Financial Maneuvering
The Warriors' front office hasn't been idle, engaging in substantial discussions to further strengthen their roster. Notably, they explored a potential trade with the Utah Jazz for All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen. However, these talks stalled due to the high asking price involving second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski and multiple draft picks, prompting Golden State to halt negotiations, deeming the potential deal unbalanced.
This cautious approach is part of a broader strategy. "We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them," said Mike Dunleavy, underscoring the Warriors' commitment to nurturing their young talent, particularly players like Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga, without succumbing to unpalatable trade conditions.
Financial considerations have likewise been pivotal. Following years of hefty luxury tax penalties amounting to $677 million since the 2013-14 season, the Warriors are maneuvering to avoid further burdensome penalties. They have reoriented themselves under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold by releasing Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed. This move allows for financial flexibility as the team builds for the future.
Leadership and Emerging Talent
As ever, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green remain integral to the Warriors' operational framework. Curry, who has until the summer to extend his contract by an additional year up to $62.2 million, expressed his enduring ambition: "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."
The Warriors are betting on their younger talent rising to the occasion. Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody are expected to assume more significant roles this season and are both eligible for five-year extensions in October. Failure to secure these extensions could see them become unrestricted free agents post next season, with Kuminga's potential deal worth up to a staggering $224 million.
Changes Within the Coaching Staff
The Warriors are also embracing changes within their coaching ranks. The departure of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the untimely passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic has necessitated new additions to the coaching staff. In their place, the team has recruited Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse. Stotts brings offensive expertise, while Stackhouse offers defensive acumen from his experience as head coach at Vanderbilt. These hires are poised to bring fresh tactical insights to the team.
The Road Ahead
As the Warriors navigate this transitional phase, the atmosphere within the organization remains optimistic. A front office source described the situation as "actually really fun," highlighting the collective belief in the team’s potential despite the significant changes.
With seasoned veterans and promising young players, the Golden State Warriors are poised to navigate this new chapter with resilience and determination, aiming to return to their championship-contending form. The upcoming season will test the effectiveness of their off-season maneuvers and the growth of their burgeoning talent pool, as the storied franchise seeks to add another illustrious chapter to its legacy.