3 Warriors who are playing for their future in Golden State

Jordan Poole

This may sound like a strange one on face value given Jordan Poole is set to start a four-year, $128 million contract from next season. However, the Warriors’ payroll is reaching a tipping point, and ultimately how much is too much for owner Joe Lacob?

Golden State prioritized Poole over veteran teammate Draymond Green during last offseason, giving him the extension which may have partly been impacted by the pair’s altercation during training camp.

Yet through 69 games so far this season, Green has proven that he still remains a far more valuable piece to the Warriors. The former Defensive Player of the Year can opt out of his $27.6 million player option for next season, potentially leaving a major headache for the Golden State front office and ownership.

Green could comfortably request a multi-year deal at nearly $30 million per season, and if the Warriors do give him that, a potential payroll in excess of $500 million may mean something has to give. If that were the case and Lacob wanted to save money, then Poole looks like the most natural avenue to do so.

The 23-year-old has battled to deliver consistently in a sixth man role this season, partly because he’s still started over half his games due to injuries to superstar point-guard Stephen Curry. A combination of sloppy turnovers, inefficient shooting, and non-existent defense means he’s now arguably Golden State’s seventh most important player — over $30 million per year is a lot to pay for that level of player.

Poole still has a major say in his own fate. He remains one of the most talented young guards offensively in the league, and despite his struggles at times this season, he’s still averaging career-highs in points and assists per game.

If Poole can return to his best form and help the Warriors to another deep playoff run, then that may be enough convince Lacob to continue spending big. If not, then major change could be coming and Poole may find himself a casualty.