Mike Dunleavy Jr. may not foresee Stephen Curry anywhere but the Golden State Warriors, but the general manager has admitted the franchise would listen to a trade request if it were to come from the two-time MVP.
It's an uncomfortable truth to reveal about the franchise's greatest ever player, and one that's further frustated fans after an underwhelming offseason that's led to speculation over Curry's future with the Warriors.
Warriors admit Stephen Curry trade truth fans don't want to hear
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Dunleavy affirmed belief that Curry is looking to finish his career with Golden State, but left the door open to discussions if the 38-year-old was to start thinking differently.
"Ultimately it's his call, his decision, whether that's allowing his contract to run out and move on. Look, if he comes to me and wants to be moved, (controlling owner) Joe (Lacob) and I will talk it through," Dunleavy said. "We wouldn't love it. But he's earned the right to do what he wants. But as far as the messaging or any idea that he'd be anywhere else, that's not a thing we're looking at or he's looking at."
It's a fascinating revelation to make, particularly at a time where the reputation of the front office and ownership has taken a hit as a result of once again doing nothing to maximize the Curry timeline this summer.
It also does little to silence speculation over the potential of Curry finishing his career elsewhere, having been driven in recent weeks thanks to Golden State's failed pursuit of LeBron James and their complete inactivity this offseason.
Warriors can only silence Stephen Curry speculation with one move
The other reason Curry's future has become a talking point is the fact he's on an expiring contract, making it easier for him to theoretically request a trade or simply make the shock call to leave the Warriors in free agency next year.
Perhaps the only way Golden State can completely silence speculation is to quickly sign Curry to an extension once he becomes eligible at the end of the month. The 12x All-Star can sign a two-year, $136.7 million deal on August 29, and any delay could be an indication of Curry putting pressure on the front office to make a major move.
For the moment it's an unwise decision for Dunleavy to be even discussing the idea of a Curry trade request, let alone suggest they're open to it in a way that's left fans even more bemused about the direction of the franchise.
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