Steve Kerr reveals Warriors negotiating trades for everyone but Steph Curry
Steve Kerr cut a disappointed figure facing the media after the Golden State Warriors’ season ended at the hands of the Sacramento Kings. He told reporters that “you don’t get to stay on top forever.” The multi-titled coach added that the team had an offseason of uncertainty as it had a “lot to think about.”
One of the biggest uncertainties was the tenure of longtime Warrior Klay Thompson. “Game 6 Klay” had become an unrestricted free agent after failing to reach an agreement with the team. The legendary guard eventually left the Bay Area via a sign-and-trade deal that sent him to the Dallas Mavericks.
Steve Kerr, however, knew one thing was certain this summer with the Dubs. Here’s what the Team USA coach had to say on the “Willard & Dibs” show about that:
"There's very few players in the league who are not talked about in trade discussions. Steph Curry is not being talked about in trade talks. Everybody else is."
Kerr added that most NBA teams operate in the same way. He mentioned LeBron James as probably the only player the LA Lakers weren’t willing to trade. For him, most players are fair game as every team badly wants to improve in the offseason.
Steph Curry had another superb season, averaging 26.4 points on 45.0% shooting, including 40.8% from deep per game. He won the Clutch Player of the Year award, a recognition of his ability to lead the Warriors in nip-and-tuck battles.
The Warriors' supporting cast, however, failed to answer the bell for the two-time MVP. Steve Kerr and his coaching staff had to evaluate to try and keep up with the competition.
Steve Kerr will have new help for Steph Curry next season
Paul George nearly became a mouthwatering addition to the Golden State Warriors. Had the plan to get him worked out, he and Steph Curry will unquestionably be Steve Kerr’s 1-2 punch on offense. It would have been a trade that would make the Dubs one of the early favorites to win the championship.
The Clippers refused to cooperate, forcing the Dubs to take a different route. Instead of adding a superstar, they went out to boost Curry’s supporting cast.
The Warriors got Kyle Anderson and Buddy Hield in the same six-team deal. Hield will be Steve Kerr’s instant replacement for Klay Thompson beside Steph Curry. Anderson is a glue guy who can improve the team’s versatility and allow Kerr different combinations.
Getting De’Anthony Melton might be somewhat of an underrated move. If he can shake off back injuries, he could compete for the starting two-guard spot beside “Chef Curry.” Melton can defend the entire length of the floor and can punish defenses with his outside shooting.
Steve Kerr has some big decisions to make heading into the 2024-25 season. One thing is certain, though, he will have Steph Curry in the middle of everything. Every player will have to fit around the iconic Warriors superstar.