4 Things Warriors must immediately do the minute free agency begins
By Tyler Watts
The Golden State Warriors have just nine players under contract heading into free agency, and they are already $11 million over the luxury tax. That is without Draymond Green, who declined his player option and is free to sign with any team. The Dubs made a surprise trade for Chris Paul, but plan on keeping their core together and taking another run at a championship.
Donte DiVincenzo was the latest to opt-out, and he will likely depart for a larger deal. The Warriors have work to do if they want to stay in contention, including rounding out their bench.
What should be first on the to-do list when free agency opens on June 30 at 3 p.m. PT? Mike Dunleavy Jr. is in his first offseason as lead decision-maker, and here is the game plan that he should follow on Friday.
Things Golden State Warriors must do the moment free agency begins
1. Re-sign Draymond
Draymond Green is the heart and soul of the Warriors, but re-signing him to a long-term deal is no slam-dunk decision. Stephen Curry makes over $50 million per season until he becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2026. Andrew Wiggins is locked in long-term, and the Dubs want to keep Klay Thompson. Having all four on the roster makes Golden State a second-apron team and limits their flexibility moving forward.
The Kings and Blazers are rumored to be interested in Green, and they are not the only suitors for the four-time All-Star. Can the Warriors convince him to stay?
Draymond wants to re-sign with his only NBA franchise, but the two sides need to work out a mutually beneficial deal. The dollars and years could become sticking points that lead to a break-up. Neither sides want it, but both must be willing to draw a line in the sand.
The Golden State Warriors must re-sign Draymond Green to stay in title contention, but they cannot be done there.