The Golden State Warriors are coming off a disappointing end to their season, eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves in a series where Stephen Curry’s injury proved costly. With the addition of Jimmy Butler, the expectation was that the Warriors would be aggressive in free agency to bolster their title chances. However, the front office has remained relatively quiet so far this NBA offseason.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. is holding off on significant moves until the franchise reaches a resolution with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. “The Warriors have not made a move yet this offseason because a lot of what they’re going to do, or trying to do, hinges on Kuminga’s restricted free agency,” Charania said on SiriusXM NBA Radio via RealGM.
“Does he come back on a deal? Or are you signing and trading him? That’s held up their movement this offseason. You have a full NBA team whose actions have been held up so far because they’re waiting on that.” The Warriors extended a $7.5 million qualifying offer to Kuminga in June, allowing them to match any outside offer he receives. Several teams have reportedly shown interest in Kuminga, some prepared to meet his contract demands.
Despite the uncertainty, the Warriors may be forced to act in free agency, particularly in addressing their glaring need at center. One name generating buzz is veteran Al Horford, whose experience and versatility would make for an intriguing fit alongside Golden State’s core. The franchise has lacked frontcourt depth since moving off Kevon Looney, and Horford could help stabilize that rotation.
Golden State’s financial situation complicates their flexibility. After acquiring and extending Jimmy Butler at the 2025 trade deadline, the Warriors now face significant cap pressure. Butler and Stephen Curry are each owed over $110 million across the next two seasons. Alongside Draymond Green, that trio will account for more than $138 million in salary for the 2025–26 campaign, and $145 million the following year, according to Basketball Reference.
Adding to the payroll constraints, Moses Moody’s $39 million contract extension will begin in 2025–26, making him the fourth-highest-paid player on the roster. Buddy Hield is under contract at $9 million, while the rest of the roster is comprised of players on rookie-scale deals. Golden State’s 2025 second-round picks, Alex Toohey and Will Richard, have yet to sign, but they are not expected to impact the salary cap significantly.
While the Warriors still possess championship aspirations, their current roster and financial limitations demand precision in any move they make. Whether it’s retaining Kuminga, landing a veteran big like Horford, or navigating the luxury tax with strategic additions, Golden State’s next steps could define their competitiveness in the upcoming NBA season.