SAN FRANCISCO — Mike Dunleavy set the tone for his summer during his first answer in the postseason press conference.
In his opening remarks, the Golden State Warriors general manager highlighted the discussions that resulted in Steve Kerr’s return for a 13th coaching season. When asked how many of those talks focused on the team’s roster and potential improvements for a squad that ended the regular season at 37-45, Dunleavy provided insights that will be tested in the coming months as he and owner Joe Lacob work to reshape the roster.
“In the grand scheme, not much about the roster,” Dunleavy remarked. “This isn’t solely about roster talent. This year, our issues stemmed from injuries and controllable elements. While we need roster improvements, we never faced a team with a clearly superior roster. Hence, we’re focusing on aspects we can manage.”
Dunleavy has faith in the current roster, but his actions will ultimately indicate his sentiments. The Warriors’ strategy regarding the No. 11 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft will be particularly telling. Retaining the selection could allow them to secure a young, athletic player, a quality missing from this aging roster. Should Dunleavy truly believe in this roster, any enhancements will likely come incrementally following a season that fell short of expectations.
Stephen Curry
Chances of returning: 100 percent
Curry continues to be the cornerstone for the organization. Dunleavy stated during the press conference that contract extension discussions will commence this summer, emphasizing the Warriors’ desire for Curry to remain as long as he wishes.
Jimmy Butler
Chances of returning: 80 percent
Butler is anticipated to sit out a portion of next season while recovering from an ACL injury. While he is eager to return and the Warriors have expressed their desire to have him back, there is a chance he could be traded if another star becomes available.
Draymond Green
Chances of returning: 70 percent
Dunleavy indicated that “the ball’s in his court” regarding Green, who must decide whether to exercise his nearly $28 million player option for the upcoming year. Green may explore a longer deal for less annual money to stay, though his consistency has waned, raising questions about his market value if he tests free agency.
Al Horford
Chances of returning: 65 percent
Horford faces two critical decisions: does the 39-year-old want to continue playing, and will he opt into his $6 million player option with the Warriors? Coach Kerr has expressed interest in retaining Horford, who enjoyed his time in the Bay, but the Warriors no longer view themselves as title contenders, complicating Horford’s decision.
Kristaps Porziņģis
Chances of returning: 50 percent
The Warriors were hopeful that Porziņģis could contribute after his acquisition before the trade deadline, but injuries limited him to just 15 games. Despite forming a strong bond with the team’s health staff, he was noncommittal about his future after the season. The key question remains regarding his market after two injury-riddled seasons.
