Ahead of what promises to be a big offseason, the Golden State Warriors have reportedly named their replacement for outgoing General Manager and President of Basketball Operations Bob Myers.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Warriors have reached a long-term agreement with Mike Dunleavy Jr. that will see him elevate into a role Myers leaves after 11 years and four NBA championships.
Having already begun taking on increased responsibilities, Mike Dunleavy Jr. will be thrown into the fire as the new General Manager of the Golden State Warriors.
It’s an unsurprising appointment given indications that Dunleavy and Kirk Lacob would step into elevated leadership, per The Athletic’s Anthony Slater earlier this week. Still, an announcement has come somewhat early despite the imminent draft and free agency periods.
"“Dunleavy’s representatives at Excel Sports Management finalized talks on a new long-term deal with owner Joe Lacob on Thursday, sources said. A formal announcement is planned for Friday morning with a news conference set for Monday”, Wojnarowski wrote."
Dunleavy Jr. was drafted by the Warriors in 2002, spending nearly five years at the franchise between 2002-2007. He returned as a scout in 2018 before being promoted to assistant General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations.
The 42-year-old has already begun increased responsibilities following Myers announcement to depart the franchise at the end of last month. Dunleavy will have plenty of opportunity to make his mark on the Warriors over the next month, starting with the NBA Draft next Thursday June 22.
Golden State currently hold pick 19 but could be looking at acquiring a higher pick by putting Jonathan Kuminga on the trade block, according to ESPN’s Jonathan Givony. It would be a courageous call should it eventuate, particularly so early in Dunleavy’s tenure as General Manager.
Even more importantly, he’ll have to negotiate a new deal with franchise legend Draymond Green should the 33-year-old opt out of his $27.6 million player option for next season. It’ll all be part of a huge offseason for Dunleavy and the Warriors as they aim to respond from a disappointing second-round playoff exit in 2022-23.