The 2025-26 season has been largely unfortunate for the Golden State Warriors. While the franchise displayed every intention of contending for the title, shortcomings in roster construction and severe misfortune with injuries have derailed the campaign.
Although this could be the end of the Warriors’ dynasty, it would appear that the team still has some aspirations to maximize its chances next year. Having shown an interest in players such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, LeBron James, and even Kawhi Leonard, ESPN’s Marc J. Spears expects the Warriors to garner some interest as a landing spot for superstars in the offseason.
“Kawhi, if obviously [the NBA chooses] to exonerate his contract, why wouldn’t he want to look at this, especially with this team?” Spears claimed. “Although, how does it fit with Draymond and Jimmy, assuming a healthy Jimmy?”
“Kinda the same with LeBron James. But you’ve got to remember that LeBron James is very close with Draymond, who I expect to stay. It seems like he has a growing friendship with Stephen Curry, the close flight to L.A.,” he hinted further.
“Giannis, certainly a lot more difficult. But ultimately, to me, why shouldn’t the Warriors be in all those discussions?” Spears asked. “I just feel like, anybody the Warriors are interested in, will at least take the call.”
Spears highlighted all the key aspects that make the Warriors an attractive destination for players. From the team’s culture to the city itself, Golden State has grown into a global brand, one that could boost the value of any player willing to go there.
Considering how enticing this could be for the aforementioned athletes, there is a growing likelihood that this offseason could see some wide-scale changes in the Bay Area.
Who Are The Warriors Most Likely To Land?
There is a solid case for each of the players mentioned above to join the Golden State Warriors.
Acquiring Kawhi Leonard might be the trickiest of the lot. Although the Warriors almost completed a trade for him at the deadline this year, last-minute changes prevented it from going through.
Leonard’s contract is still at risk of being voided. If he becomes a free agent, the path to acquiring him becomes much easier. However, if the Dubs have to pull the trigger on a trade, any package involving Jimmy Butler may not be enticing enough.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s case is similar. While the Bucks’ superstar has been viewed as the ideal fit next to Stephen Curry, acquiring him without parting with virtually all of their draft capital will be immensely challenging for Golden State’s front office.
On that note, LeBron James may surprisingly be the easiest to acquire. Along with the mutual interest, James’ status as a free agent may allow Golden State to convince him to accept a team-friendly deal by promising another shot at winning the title.
Since James has also accepted his place as a third option, there may be no obstacles in this journey. But if the pay cut is significant, the superstar may choose to leverage his options.
There is no perfect scenario for the Warriors, especially with Jimmy Butler injured for a considerable amount of time. Still, given that the Dubs need to make the most of Stephen Curry’s last years, going all-out to acquire another superstar may not be the worst idea.
