Warriors Survey Options on Kawhi, Trey Murphy and No. 11 Pick
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Golden State continues to weigh trade and roster possibilities while trying to preserve long-term flexibility, league sources told ESPN’s Anthony Slater.
Trade Market Targets
The Warriors have expressed interest in Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard, depending on the asking price, but Los Angeles owner Steve Ballmer remains reluctant to move the two-time Finals MVP, according to the report.
New Orleans wing Trey Murphy III, 26, also sits high on Golden State’s list. The Pelicans have previously demanded a significant return, yet they are now believed to be seeking a lottery pick in this year’s draft. Golden State holds pick No. 11.
Draft Board at No. 11
If the club keeps its first-round selection, Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg, Arizona guard Brayden Burries, Michigan center Aday Mara, Louisville guard Mikel Brown and Houston guard Kingston Flemings are under consideration. One team source described Lendeborg’s fit as “obvious,” and his age—24 in September—does not appear to be a deterrent.
Burries has declined workouts for several top-10 clubs, including the No. 7 Kings, but he favors the No. 9 Mavericks and will audition for Golden State on Thursday. Alabama guard Labaron Philon and Washington big man Hannes Steinbach will join him in the Bay Area that day.
Roster and Contract Notes
Draymond Green is expected to pick up his $27.6 million player option. While the Warriors would prefer a new multiyear deal that lowers his 2026-27 cap hit, they are comfortable with him on an expiring contract and remain open to keeping him in San Francisco long-term.
Momentum is building toward re-signing Kristaps Porzingis on a short-term agreement at a reduced salary after he earned more than $30 million in 2025-26, Slater reports.
Veteran forward Al Horford has yet to decide on a $5.9 million option, while guard DeAnthony Melton is expected to decline his $3.4 million option but could still return in free agency.
Possible Extensions
Extension talks for players under contract in 2026-27 are slated for later in the summer. That list includes a rookie-scale deal for guard Brandin Podziemski, and team officials are optimistic about reaching an agreement before the October deadline.
Separately, the Warriors reportedly believe LeBron James is likely to remain with the Lakers.
Source: Hoops Rumors
