The Golden State Warriors are navigating a transformative offseason, one that reshapes their core while holding onto the franchise's spirit. Notably absent from their 2023-2024 roster is Klay Thompson, the sharp-shooting guard who has been a fixture since 2011. Thompson's departure to the Dallas Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal in July marks the end of an era and the beginning of a crucial transitional phase for the Warriors.
Core Stars Remain
Despite Thompson's departure, the Warriors still boast iconic figures like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and the strategic acumen of Coach Steve Kerr. Curry and Green continue to be the linchpins of the team, maintaining their substantial influence within the organizational framework. As movement reshuffles the roster, these pillars serve as the stable foundation upon which the Warriors aim to build their future success.
New Arrivals Aiming to Fill the Void
In response to these changes, the Warriors have made significant roster additions, including Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De'Anthony Melton. Hield, known for his scoring prowess, expresses optimism about fitting into the Warriors' system. "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," says Hield.
While the search for impactful players continued, Golden State's discussions with the Utah Jazz over All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen hit a roadblock. The high asking price, involving second-year guard and All-Rookie Brandin Podziemski and multiple draft picks, caused the Warriors to halt negotiations, deeming the potential deal unbalanced.
Maneuvering Around Financial Hurdles
One of the most pressing challenges for the Warriors has been their financial maneuvering to avoid burdensome luxury tax penalties. Releasing Chris Paul before his $30 million deal became guaranteed was a key move, allowing Golden State to reposition under the $178.7 million luxury tax threshold. Since the 2013-14 season, the Warriors have incurred a staggering $677 million in penalties. They are cautious about parting with key players like Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga without receiving an overwhelming offer in return, Exhibit A of their vigilant approach toward preserving roster flexibility.
Developing Young Talent
The upcoming season could see younger talents like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody taking on larger roles. Both players have shown promise and are eligible for five-year extensions this October. Should they not sign extensions, they could become unrestricted free agents after next season, with Kuminga's potential deal reaching up to $224 million. Mike Dunleavy's confidence in these young talents speaks volumes: “We want those guys here. We believe in them, we drafted them,” he asserts.
Coaching Staff Changes
Beyond the player roster, the Warriors have also made significant changes within their coaching staff. The departures of Kenny Atkinson to Cleveland and the tragic passing of assistant coach Dejan Milojevic have necessitated new hirings. The addition of Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse introduces fresh expertise to the Warriors' bench. Stotts, known for his offensive strategies, and Stackhouse, bringing defensive acumen honed during his five seasons as head coach at Vanderbilt, are poised to bring a balanced approach to the team's coaching philosophy.
Season Prospects
Stephen Curry's commitment to winning remains unwavering. "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," says Curry. This sentiment is echoed by a front office source who describes the current situation as "actually really fun," underscoring a positive and resilient outlook as the Warriors navigate this period of adjustment.
With young players stepping up, seasoned veterans leading, and fresh coaching talent to guide them, the Warriors look to maintain their competitive edge. As the new season approaches, the reshaped roster and coaching staff set the stage for a team determined to remain a formidable force in the NBA.