Key Highlights
- The Jonathan Kuminga trade officially brings an end to the Warriors’ two-timeline plan.
- The Warriors landed three lottery picks in 2020 but struggled to develop them effectively.
- Curry, Green, and Thompson’s resurgence led to a title win in 2022 despite these prospects.
- Porziņģis’ expiring contract was seen as a key piece for the future, but may be too late to salvage Curry’s prime era.
The End of an Era?
Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob once boasted about their “two-timeline” plan—riding out Stephen Curry’s prime while developing a new generation. However, the jury is in: it’s time to accept that the Curry era may be reaching its twilight.
Curry’s Prime Still Shining, But…
Steph Curry is still exceptional, averaging 29.8 points per game on 47/39/93 shooting splits. Draymond Green remains a defensive anchor, while Klay Thompson’s departure and Jimmy Butler’s injury leave the team scrambling for reinforcements.
The Trade that Changed Everything
Golden State shipped Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield to Atlanta for Kristaps Porziņģis’ expiring $30.7 million contract, a trade seen as key in acquiring another star. However, Porziņģis has missed 40% of his career due to injuries, casting doubt on whether he can be the player Lacob envisioned.
What Now for the Warriors?
The team is 27-24 and clinging to a play-in tournament berth in the Western Conference. They lack trade pieces to close the gap with title contenders like the Denver Nuggets or Oklahoma City Thunder. The addition of Porziņģis may be helpful, but the core trio of Curry, Green, and Butler remains old.
Porziņģis’ Future Uncertain
Porziņģis could still be a valuable complement to Curry, Green, and Butler, especially if he can stay healthy. But his injury history poses significant risks. The Warriors may need to explore other options or accept their fate as a fading champion.
Trade Deadline Recap
The NBA trade deadline saw several high-profile moves, including the Bucks declining offers for Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Jazz leaning into a winner with Lauri Markkanen. The Warriors’ offer to acquire Antetokounmpo included Kuminga, Green, Podziemski, and draft picks.
The reality is stark: Curry’s prime is fading, and the Warriors are transitioning into their post-Curry era. Pride is on the line, but even that may be flickering as they find themselves in a middle-of-the-road position this season.
