The Golden State Warriors want to keep the band together. Unfortunately, that’s not how the NBA works. But they can try.
It’ll be tough to keep the current iteration of the Golden State Warriors together.
Draymond Green has a player option, which he’ll likely use to enter free agency if it comes to it, as he’ll have interested suitors on the open market. Klay Thompson, meanwhile, will be an unrestricted free agent after next season.
Should Green leave, the Warriors on-court intelligence would drop dramatically. What Green forfeits in the stat sheet, he makes up for in basketball acumen. That’s why the likes of the Lakers, Pistons and more would offer him a max deal within days of reaching the open market.
Thompson, meanwhile, is a far tougher decision. Klay has a year left on his deal, but if he wants an extension post-major knee injury, perhaps he’ll take a pay cut. That would certainly help with keeping Green by the Bay.
NBA Rumors: Is the Warriors dynasty over?
Before the 2022-23 season Steve Kerr said what was on everyone’s mind. Yes, the Warriors had just won a title, but the end is near.
“It can only last so long. We know this isn’t going forever,” Kerr said, per ESPN. “This could be the last year, maybe next year is the last year. … We’re in the final stages. We know that. We want to make the most of it.”
Even general manager Bob Myers could leave for a new destination if he deems this dynasty over. He’s expected to receive large offers from interested parties if his contract runs up.
Golden State wants to keep the Big 3 together. Curry isn’t going anywhere. Thompson has a year left on his deal. Green is a free agent who needs a new deal. Surely, if they want to stay together, they’ll find a way. But after four rings, has this dynasty run its course?
That’s up to Curry, Thompson and Green to answer, not us.