Short and long term questions for Golden State Warriors’ offseason

Long term questions

Golden State has never shied away from playing the long game. In fact, it’s been their entire identity for the last few years. If continuing the dynasty is their goal, here are two burning questions to consider.

Will Klay Thompson look better next season?

The Warriors won the title, so any concern about Klay Thompson’s performance will mostly be washed away. Had they lost? The narrative could be very different.

One thing is clear, despite a few moments of glory throughout the playoffs, Klay was not himself.

It was his worst 3-point shooting playoffs since the Warriors began their dynasty and his second-worst in terms of overall shooting. He wasn’t as mobile defensively and he left a few opportunities on the board that he would have normally knocked down in the past.

Considering this was his first crack back at the postseason since 2019 (which feels like a lifetime ago), it’s entirely possible Thompson will look rejuvenated with a full offseason to get his feet back and prep for another title run next year.

Jordan Poole extension?

Eligible for a rookie extension worth up to $32 million a year, Jordan Poole’s future contract will be weighing on the mind of the Warriors.

The Dubs don’t have to decide just yet. They can wait until next season to truly lock Poole into a long-term deal but it’s worth considering a deal now to get it over with. The question is, how much money does he get?

Poole blossomed into an elite offensive weapon last season. His bursts of scoring are a core reason for their championship. Yet, he has glaring gaps in his game, specifically on the defensive but also as a streaky shooter.

Could Poole’s limitations cost him a max extension? Can The Dubs even afford to keep him?

On the other hand, what if Thompson continues to struggle?  Will the Warriors dip even more stock into Poole’s development?

This is a topic of conversation that could last quite a long time. Or, it could be resolved immediately this summer. We’ll just have to wait and see how the front office tackles this one.