Examining Warriors' Salary Cap, Decisions for 2026 NBA Free Agency After Suns Loss
After a frustrating 2025-26 season ended with a play-in loss to the Phoenix Suns on Friday, the Golden State Warriors are entering the offseason.
The context of what's on the horizon is awfully fascinating, too.
While the memories of Golden State's dynasty are continuing to fade, the franchise isn't exactly headed for a rebuild, either. Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler are under contract for next season, while Draymond Green may return and the Dubs might prioritize a new contract for Kristaps Porzingis.
Soon enough, we'll see Golden State's plan—how it'll maneuver the salary cap, handle expiring deals and target free agents—in action.
2026 Salary Cap
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Golden State will be over the projected $165 million salary cap. That much we know, beyond the shadow of a doubt.
Curry is due $62.6 million, and Butler is owed $56.8 million. Throw in $12.5 million for Moses Moody and about $12.5 million more for Brandin Podziemski, Gui Santos and Will Richard, and the Dubs already are approaching the cap.
The main question about Golden State's outlook is whether the front office can stay below the first ($209 million) or second apron ($222 million).
And that answer, at least to start, hinges on a few player options.
Top Contract Decisions
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As of this moment, Draymond Green has a $27.7 million option. It's unlikely he leaves the Warriors, but will he simply exercise that or instead work out a long-term contract at a lower rate?
The latter route certainly would help Golden State, too.
In a best-case scenario, the Warriors bring down their salary commitments in order to have access to the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.
Yes, there are other factors in play. Al Horford ($6 million) and De'Anthony Melton ($3.5 million) also hold options, while Porzingis, Gary Payton II, Seth Curry, Pat Spencer and Quentin Post are headed to free agency.
Golden State is destined to look a little different next season, yet the exact path forward begins with Green's situation.
Free Agents to Pursue
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The name constantly popping into discussions is Kawhi Leonard, although it's unclear if his contract situation will be changed after the NBA's investigation into possible salary-cap circumvention.
We will assume that Kawhi does not become available, though.
Golden State could use a secondary playmaker, and B/R's Zach Buckley identified Anfernee Simons as a dream target in that department.
The reality is the Warriors might not have much flexibility if they re-sign Porzingis, which seems like a priority. Convincing both Horford and Melton to exercise their options would be a victory, too.
Otherwise, the Dubs are headed back to the bargain barrel in hopes of finding a wing and frontcourt piece to deepen the rotation. Cam Thomas, Simone Fontecchio and Jock Landale are worth consideration.
The wild card? LeBron James.
Would he accept a minimum deal to join Curry? Maybe a mid-level exception? How does "The King" want to end his NBA reign?
Even if uncertain, that dream is legitimate. And it would be a coup for the Dubs.
