Warriors Eye Youth and Frontcourt Upgrades Come the 2025-2026 Season
The Golden State Warriors concluded the 2024–25 NBA season with a 48–34 record, finishing seventh in the Western Conference. After opening the season with a strong 12–3 start, the team hit a midseason slump, including a 4–9 December that exposed roster depth concerns. A critical February trade brought in veteran forward Jimmy Butler from Miami in a five-team deal, giving Golden State a defensive boost and additional scoring. The move re-energized the squad as it entered the postseason.
In the first round, the Warriors squared off against the Houston Rockets in a competitive seven-game series. Despite a late push from Houston, Golden State advanced after Buddy Hield tied an NBA Game Seven record with nine three-pointers in a 103–89 win. The momentum stalled in the Western Conference Semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Golden State’s playoff hopes suffered when Stephen Curry sustained a hamstring injury in Game One, sidelining him for the rest of the series, which the Warriors lost in five games.
While the postseason exit disappointed, individual performances showed promise. Curry led the team in scoring during the regular season, while Butler contributed solidly on both ends of the floor. Jonathan Kuminga emerged as a breakout star, averaging 24.2 points per game in the playoffs and making a strong case as a foundational piece. Hield’s timely shooting and floor spacing also proved valuable, especially in high-pressure moments.
Looking ahead, the Warriors face a pivotal offseason centered around roster balance and future planning. Retaining restricted free agent Kuminga is a top priority, and internal development will be crucial as the team navigates the aging core of Curry, Butler, and Draymond Green. One of the most glaring needs is frontcourt size and rim protection, areas the team will seek to address either through the draft or free agency. Improving rebounding and second-unit scoring will also be key if Golden State hopes to rejoin the ranks of title contenders.
According to multiple reports, the Warriors have shown interest in Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, should his situation become fluid. While acquiring Antetokounmpo would require a massive package, including future picks and young assets, league insiders suggest Golden State has the resources and appeal to be a contender in any pursuit. Additionally, the team may target veteran big men or defensive specialists to shore up weaknesses exposed during the postseason. Coach Steve Kerr has emphasized the need to evolve while maintaining the team’s identity, striking a balance between experience and youth.
The 2024–25 season underscored the Warriors’ resilience but also signaled the beginning of a transitional era. With a mix of aging stars and rising talent, the franchise enters the offseason with both challenges and opportunities. The decisions made in the coming months will shape the next chapter of Golden State basketball. For now, the Warriors remain firmly in the hunt, but only if they adapt with urgency and vision.
