5 Training camp issues that could derail Warriors from the start

The Golden State Warriors were the defending champions entering the 2022-23 campaign, but Draymond Green punching Jordan Poole during training camp was a cloud that hungover the franchise all year. Head coach Steve Kerr admitted it impacted the team’s trust and helped derail their championship hopes.

Poole was traded to Washington with Chris Paul replacing him as the Dubs look to compete for a fifth championship in the last ten years. The Dubs ditched the two-timeline plan and went all-in on title contention this summer. CP3 is 38 years old and hungry for his first ring. Golden State is optimistic, but there is work to be done.

Nobody can predict another punch, but the Warriors have some issues already bubbling up that could derail their season. From spending problems to injuries to roster fits, the franchise will have to navigate plenty to hang another banner. What is concerning as training camp gets rolling?

5. Klay’s contract

This one won’t derail the season, but Klay Thompson is in the final year of his contract and hoping to sign (subscription required) an extension. The Dubs’ massive payroll plays a factor. They will be over the second tax apron for the foreseeable future if they keep Klay, but can Golden State continue paying such massive luxury tax bills?

Is Thompson willing to take a bit of a pay cut to keep the band together? Even at $25 million per year, the Warriors would have north of $200 million committed in salaries for next season. The franchise has to decide how much it is willing to spend to stay in title contention.

Klay Thompson can sign an extension until the final day of the league calendar and could re-sign as an unrestricted free agent next summer. There is no firm deadline, but his future will hang over the team this season until it is sorted out. Uncertain contract situations come with questions and added pressure. It is just one more thing for the Dubs to navigate in the 2023-24 campaign.