The upcoming 2026-27 NBA season may force the Golden State Warriors into a significant midseason reset, potentially reshaping the team's veteran core. With Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler all on expiring contracts, the Warriors have an opportunity to pivot away from their established foundation if the season begins poorly.
Marcus Thompson II, a long-time Warriors beat writer for The Athletic, suggested that the trade deadline could be a pivotal moment for the team. Thompson posited that Draymond Green might be a candidate for a trade if the Warriors struggle. "I think this might be the time," Thompson said on "The Kevin O’Connor Show." "Right now, we’re gonna figure out what happens next. I think by the trade deadline, we’ll know. This is gonna be tough, and we could really, fully be saying goodbye. Draymond could be traded at the trade deadline."
While Thompson also indicated that Jimmy Butler could be moved, he expressed doubt that the Warriors would consider trading Stephen Curry, whom he characterized as a "lifer" for the franchise.
Trading Green presents financial and roster implications. He is set to earn $27.7 million in the upcoming season, and his trade value may have diminished despite his continued impact on defense. A team looking to bolster its defense could potentially acquire Green without sacrificing significant future assets.
Butler's situation is complicated by his age and recent injury. The veteran forward, who turned 37 in September, is recovering from a torn ACL sustained last season and is not expected to return until late January or early February. The Warriors acquired Butler from the Miami Heat at the 2025 trade deadline, but he has played in only 68 games for Golden State over parts of two seasons.
Thompson highlighted that the Warriors have approximately $100 million in expiring contracts, offering substantial financial flexibility. This could enable the front office to make a drastic change in direction if the current roster is deemed incapable of contending.
"That’s the core players," Thompson stated. "Klay’s already gone. If Draymond leaves, there’s a sense you could feel like they just might start this thing completely over."
Such a shift would be significant, especially given Curry's ongoing presence. However, the Warriors are also focused on developing their next generation of players. Coach Steve Kerr has recently voiced approval for the team's young talent, including No. 11 overall pick Yaxel Lendeborg. If the Warriors experience a decline in performance, the trade deadline could signify more than just a roster adjustment; it could mark the end of an era for the team's championship core.