The Golden State Warriors are navigating unfamiliar territory this season — a 36-40 record that has them locked into the play-in tournament rather than battling for home-court advantage.
For a franchise that has been a model of sustained excellence for the better part of 15 years, the current campaign feels off. Stephen Curry has missed significant time with a knee injury, Jimmy Butler is out for the season after tearing his ACL, and the team has leaned heavily on a makeshift roster featuring young pieces and Kristaps Porzingis.
While Curry is expected to return soon and provide a jolt for the play-in push, the Warriors know they lack the firepower for a deep playoff run. As a result, attention has already shifted to the 2026-27 season and what the franchise must do to reclaim its place among the NBA’s elite.
Kawhi Leonard and Stephen Curry could become teammates on the Golden…
Curry Likely Staying, But Kerr’s Future Is Uncertain
All signs point to Stephen Curry returning for at least one more season in Golden State. The legendary point guard remains the heart and soul of the franchise, and there has been no serious indication he is ready to move on.
Steve Kerr, however, is another story. According to Bay Area reporter Tim Kawakami, Kerr has not yet informed the team of his plans beyond this season. His decision could hinge on whether the Warriors can add another high-level talent this summer — specifically, two-way superstar Kawhi Leonard.
Warriors Came Close to Acquiring Leonard at the Trade Deadline
Kawakami revealed that Golden State was very close to landing Leonard at the February trade deadline, but the Los Angeles Clippers ultimately pulled out of negotiations. Leonard has returned to his dominant, two-way form this season and would have instantly elevated the Warriors’ ceiling alongside Curry.
Now a free agent this summer, Leonard could be signed without giving up assets in a trade. Adding a player of his caliber — elite defense, clutch scoring, and championship pedigree — would give Kerr a compelling reason to return for at least one more year.
What This Means for the Warriors
Bringing in Leonard would not only provide immediate help but also send a clear message that the Warriors are committed to contending while Curry is still in his prime. It would create a formidable core featuring Curry, Leonard, Green (if he exercises his player option), and Porzingis, with young contributors like Brandin Podziemski and Gui Santos gaining valuable experience.
For Kerr, who has built a Hall of Fame coaching résumé alongside Curry, the chance to coach another superstar like Leonard could be the motivation needed to stay. At the same time, if the Warriors fail to add meaningful talent, Kerr may choose to step away after what has been a frustrating and injury-plagued campaign.
Final Word
The Warriors are at a crossroads. This season has exposed the limitations of their current roster depth and health, but the core — led by Curry — still has fight left. Adding Kawhi Leonard this summer would represent a bold, high-upside move to extend the championship window.
Whether Kerr returns or not may ultimately depend on the franchise’s ability to surround its stars with the right supporting cast. For now, the focus remains on the play-in and giving Curry every chance to make one last meaningful run this spring.
Warriors fans, what’s your take? Would signing Kawhi Leonard be enough to convince Steve Kerr to return for another season? Or should the Warriors focus on youth and rebuilding around Curry instead? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
The next few months will be critical in shaping the future of this historic franchise. Stay tuned as free agency and the draft approach.