The Golden State Warriors’ 2025-26 season ended in familiar heartbreak but with a new layer of uncertainty. After missing the playoffs and falling short in the play-in tournament, the franchise faced pivotal questions about its future core. In the final minutes of a 111-96 loss to the Phoenix Suns on April 17, head coach Steve Kerr huddled with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green — a moment heavy with the possibility that it could be their last game together as a trio.
Now, clarity is beginning to emerge.
Kerr’s future, once in doubt as his contract had expired, is resolved: the longtime coach is returning to the Warriors for two more seasons. That continuity provides a critical anchor for the organization. But the bigger immediate question mark revolves around Draymond Green, the emotional and defensive heartbeat of the dynasty.
On Friday, Warriors General Manager Mike Dunleavy directly addressed Green’s situation, delivering comments that offer both reassurance and a dose of realism.
“Draymond’s got a player option, so the ball is in his court in terms of returning,” Dunleavy told reporters. “I think we’ve had the discussions where we want him to finish his career as a Warrior, and he kind of feels the same way. I expect him to be back, but it’s his call on that.”
At 36 years old, Green holds a $27.6 million player option for next season, with a decision deadline of June 29. While opting in would technically leave him exposed to potential trade scenarios, sources indicate the Warriors currently have no interest in parting ways with the veteran forward. The organization’s desire to retain him as a lifer appears genuine — a sentiment Green reportedly shares.
Kerr’s return could further solidify Green’s place in the Bay. The longstanding relationship between coach, Curry, and Green has been the foundation of Golden State’s success for over a decade. With Kerr back on the sidelines, the chemistry and trust that have defined the era are more likely to remain intact.
That said, Dunleavy made it clear the Warriors will not sit idle. While they hope to keep their veteran core together, the front office intends to be active in exploring opportunities to improve the roster both for the present and the future.
“As far as trade acquisition stuff, we’re probably always in the conversation because we have the draft capital to be,” Dunleavy explained. “We’ll always look at stuff and whatever we can do to make the team better now and in the future.”
This balanced approach — loyalty to proven leaders combined with aggressive pursuit of upgrades — reflects the delicate position the Warriors find themselves in. After missing the playoffs, the window for contention is narrowing, yet the presence of Curry, Green (if he returns), and Kerr provides a foundation many franchises would envy.
Green’s decision will carry significant weight. Opting in would signal his commitment to finishing his career in Golden State under familiar leadership. Declining it could open the door to free agency and potentially reshape the team’s financial flexibility, though the current signals point strongly toward a reunion.
For now, the ball is in Draymond’s hands. In a franchise defined by bold moves and unbreakable bonds, his choice could determine whether the Warriors mount one more serious postseason push or begin a more pronounced transition.
The Bay Area is waiting — and the clock is ticking toward June 29.