Biggest Winners and Losers From Warriors' 2026 Offseason

The Golden State Warriors had a relatively quiet offseason, especially when expectations were high with chatter of LeBron James possibly coming to The Bay. "The King" went in the opposite direction, heading to Philadelphia instead. The Warriors were linked to a number of superstar players, including Jaylen Brown and Anthony Davis, both of whom could've been added to help lure James and increase their championship hopes. The Warriors missed out on high-profile targets, but did take care of their own, re-signing head coach Steve Kerr, Draymond Green, Kristaps Porzingis, De'Anthony Melton, Al Horford, and Gary Payton II. They also added Yaxel Lendeborg with the 11th overall pick. After an offseason that didn't see big changes, who were the big winners and losers? Draymond, Porzingis, and Horford are all back in the mix, signing new deals to return. It's an older frontcourt with a scary injury history, but with age comes experience, and this group has plenty of experience to lean on. New addition Yaxel Lendeborg is an older rookie at 24 years old, and he can lean on the veteran players to find his way in the league and be the contributor they need him to be. He's an all-around player who should be able to take something from each championship player on both sides of the court. If Steph Curry was looking for immediate help in hopes of securing at least one more championship before he retires, he didn't get it. Steph has proven that he's still capable of leading a team, but he was banged up throughout last season and now they are running back a tenth seed that failed to make the playoffs. Maybe chemistry and familiarity will win out, but there is no true second option to carry the load when he has an off night or if he misses extended time once again with an injury until Jimmy Butler returns from his ACL tear. Podziemski is in the final year of his rookie contract, and he's set up for success with the Warriors not making a big splash and Butler and Moses Moody set to miss the start of the season. He's shown improvement in each of his first three seasons, and now he's playing for a bigger contract. With most of Golden State's help coming in the frontcourt, Podziemski is one of their better backcourt options. Those hoping for a "give everything to Steph at all costs" mindset were likely disappointed at the offseason. Fans want to see a competitive team around Steph, and on paper, this team doesn't look competitive. The season still has to play out, and the trade deadline could bring about new hope, but fans are headed into this season disappointed.