The Golden State Warriors have been one of the most successful and dominant teams in the NBA over the past few years. With five consecutive trips to the NBA Finals and three championships, they have solidified themselves as a powerhouse in the league. However, this past season was a tough one for the Warriors as they dealt with injuries to key players and were ultimately knocked out in the first round of the playoffs. As they head into the summer, there are many questions surrounding the team’s plans and what moves they will make to improve their roster.
General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. recently spoke to the press, via NBC Sports, about the Warriors’ approach to the offseason. He stated, “We’ll target some players that we feel can help us, but we also have to be realistic about our financial situation.” This statement hints that the Warriors may not be able to make any big splashes in free agency due to their salary cap limitations. However, this does not mean they won’t be active in trying to improve their roster.
One of the biggest decisions the Warriors will have to make this summer is regarding their superstar, Kevin Durant. Durant has the option to opt-out of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent. There have been rumors that he may choose to leave the Warriors and sign with another team. However, Dunleavy Jr. remains optimistic about Durant’s future with the team, saying, “We’re hopeful that Kevin will remain with us for many years to come.”
Aside from Durant, the Warriors also have other key players who will become free agents this summer, including Klay Thompson, DeMarcus Cousins, and Kevon Looney. The Warriors will have to make tough decisions on who to re-sign and who to let go. It’s no secret that Thompson and Cousins are both looking for big contracts, and it remains to be seen if the Warriors are willing to offer them.
In addition to their own free agents, the Warriors will also be looking at potential targets in the free agency market. With their limited cap space, they will have to be strategic in who they pursue. One player that has been linked to the Warriors is Brooklyn Nets’ All-Star point guard, D’Angelo Russell. However, it’s uncertain if the Warriors will have enough cap space to make a competitive offer to Russell.
Another area the Warriors may look to improve is their bench. This past season, their lack of depth was exposed, especially during the playoffs. They will need to add some quality role players to support their star-studded starting lineup. Some potential targets could include players like Danny Green, Patrick Beverley, or even bringing back former Warriors, Andre Iguodala or Shaun Livingston.
Aside from free agency, the Warriors also have the option to make trades to improve their roster. With their core players locked in, they may look to trade some of their young assets and draft picks to acquire proven veterans who can contribute right away. This could be a viable option for the Warriors to add depth and experience to their team.
In conclusion, the Golden State Warriors may not have the same financial flexibility as other teams this summer, but that doesn’t mean they won’t be active in trying to improve their roster. They have a solid core in place with Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and potentially Kevin Durant, and they will be looking to add pieces that can help them compete for another championship. With a strategic approach, the Warriors can continue to be a dominant force in the NBA for years to come.
