The Golden State Warriors have wasted no time mapping out their offseason priorities. With Steve Kerr secured on a two-year deal and Stephen Curry expected to sign a new extension before next season begins, the organization is fully committed to making one last championship push around its franchise cornerstone.
That commitment has translated into aggressive intentions on the trade market this summer. While Giannis Antetokounmpo stands as the headline target, the Warriors have also harbored serious interest in a second star who could elevate them back into legitimate contention. Unfortunately, the latest report on that front delivers a significant setback for Golden State.
Warriors Face Obstacle in Kawhi Leonard Pursuit
The Warriors are expected to make a concerted push to trade for Kawhi Leonard this offseason. However, according to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, early indications from Los Angeles suggest that Clippers owner Steve Ballmer wants to extend Leonard rather than entertain trade offers. At this stage, the Clippers’ preference is to retain their two-time Finals MVP instead of fielding suitors.
This development creates an immediate hurdle for the Warriors. Golden State made a late push for Leonard in the hours leading up to the February trade deadline, only to pivot and acquire Kristaps Porzingis in a deal that sent Jonathan Kuminga out of town. Those Leonard discussions never gained serious traction, as the Clippers showed minimal interest in moving him at the time.
The one potential opening remains Leonard himself. Should the star forward signal a desire to move on from Los Angeles, Ballmer would likely be forced to revisit trade conversations. Yet there has been no indication of that scenario unfolding. Leonard appears content in LA, and nothing from his camp has suggested an impending exit.
What It Means for the Warriors’ Offseason
With this update, Golden State faces a clearer — and more challenging — picture of the road ahead. Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the preferred target, but the Warriors’ trade package lacks the young, blue-chip talent the Bucks are aggressively seeking. With Leonard now looking likely to stay put in Los Angeles, the front office must get creative in its pursuit of impactful additions.
A handful of alternative names have already surfaced in discussions. Trey Murphy III of the New Orleans Pelicans was a target prior to the February deadline, though the Pelicans have demonstrated little willingness to part with their 25-year-old wing. Boston’s Derrick White has also been mentioned, though his availability would likely depend on whether the Celtics successfully land Giannis first.
Complicating matters further is Golden State’s financial situation. Any major trade for a high-salary star would almost certainly require moving either Draymond Green or Jimmy Butler. Green holds a $27.7 million player option, while Butler carries a hefty $56.8 million salary next season as he recovers from a torn ACL. Neither move would be straightforward, each carrying its own set of complications.
What the Warriors Need Around Curry
The sense of urgency is undeniable. At 38 years old, Stephen Curry has been vocal about his desire to win at least one more championship, and the organization fully shares that goal. Kerr’s return was predicated on the understanding that significant changes are coming, and the roster entering the 2026-27 season will look markedly different from the group that took the floor this past season.
Standing pat simply is not an option. The Western Conference continues to evolve, led by the young, deep, and dynamic squads in Oklahoma City and San Antonio — teams that exposed Golden State’s limitations during the season. Marginal improvements will not be enough to close the gap.
The Warriors know precisely what they need to surround Curry with contention-level talent. The challenge lies in identifying realistic paths to acquire it.
Final Word
The door on Kawhi Leonard is not entirely closed. If he ultimately pushes for a trade, the dynamic could shift rapidly. However, waiting on that possibility is not a viable strategy.
Golden State must remain proactive. Curry’s championship window does not pause for offseason uncertainty. The motivation is there — now the question is whether the Warriors can execute the right moves to capitalize on it.