The Golden State Warriors could undertake sweeping changes if head coach Steve Kerr chooses not to return next season, according to multiple team sources cited by ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne and Anthony Slater.
Kerr, 60, told reporters after Friday’s play-in defeat in Phoenix that he will take “a week or two” to decide on his future. The organization views that timeframe as enough to secure a coaching plan before turning to roster moves, sources said.
Potential shake-up on the bench
If Kerr steps aside, the Warriors intend to conduct a broad search that may include college coaches, though there is concern about pairing an NBA newcomer with veterans Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler. Even if Kerr stays, staff changes are expected. Long-time assistant Chris DeMarco has left to coach the WNBA’s New York Liberty, and former Pelicans head coach Willie Green is a candidate to rejoin Golden State’s bench.
Philosophy under review
Management believes the club relies too heavily on three-point variance and wants a more diversified offense with greater emphasis on winning possession battles. Issues such as a 13-15 start, late-game breakdowns and turnover problems during a 37-45 season have fueled that assessment.
Lacob seeks commitment from Kerr
Owner Joe Lacob will ask Kerr to sign a multi-year deal if he remains, rather than coaching a short “farewell tour,” sources told ESPN. Lacob also wants clear evidence that Kerr is eager to handle day-to-day duties, not merely staying out of loyalty to his core players.
Front-office stability
The team is committed to general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr., who quietly signed an extension and has multiple years left on his contract, despite outside speculation linking him to the Chicago Bulls.
Roster decisions looming
Keeping Curry, Green and Butler—three players in their late 30s—would occupy nearly 80% of next season’s payroll:
- Curry becomes eligible this summer for an extension of up to two years and has stated he hopes to play “several more seasons.”
- Butler, rehabbing from an ACL tear, will be extension-eligible in February and is expected to focus on recovery before addressing his contract.
- Green holds a $27.6 million player option for 2026-27 that he may exercise or use as leverage for a longer deal. While he was offered to Milwaukee in a failed bid for Giannis Antetokounmpo, team sources say there is no mandate to move Green.
Golden State could revisit talks with the Bucks this summer, pursue Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard or monitor LeBron James in free agency if he leaves the Lakers, according to the report.
Source: Hoops Rumors
