Jan 19, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; Golden State Warriors power forward Carl Landry (7) celebrates with point guard Jarrett Jack (2) during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Hornets at the New Orleans Arena. The Warriors defeated the Hornets, 116-112. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
The Golden State Warriors received some bad news last week. Yes, Stephen Curry’s ankle is still attached to his leg, and no, Andrew Bogut has not lost his affinity for looping behind-the-back passes, nor has he lost his consistently entertaining Australian accent.
Instead, the NBA reported that expected salary cap for next season is now $58.5 million, only slightly higher than the current cap.
Hearing early projections given to GMs and owners in May have NBA salary cap rising to just $58.5 mil next season. This season: $58.044 mil
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) June 3, 2013
Prior estimates expected a salary cap closer to $60 million, which would result in a higher luxury tax line. With a lower tax level, the Warriors’ salary issues are amplified, leaving even less flexibility in a very important offseason.
Here are four paths the Warriors could take this off-season, each with its own rewards, detriments, and underlying philosophy.
All stats and salary information courtesy of Basketball-Reference