New Draymond Green Rumors on Trade, Contract Stance After Steve Kerr Remains as Warriors HC

The Golden State Warriors are penciling star forward Draymond Green into their plans for next season, but the situation remains fluid.

ESPN's Anthony Slater reported Saturday that "it would be premature to call Green's place on the Warriors safe next season." He has a $27.7 million player option for 2026-27 that he could decline, or that salary would help balance the books in a blockbuster trade.

However, the Warriors still value Green's contributions, per Slater:

"In that vein, team sources have indicated that they have no intention to shop Green or push him out. On the court, they still view him as an additive winner with an elite defensive skill set that plays up when the stakes rise. Off the court, the organization felt he had a positive season as a leader while his acumen and voice essentially make him another assistant coach."

Golden State could make a longer-term commitment to the four-time All-Star with an extension, but Slater reported that "would only make sense on the organization side if it generates the type of immediate cap room that helps them add a usable piece."

Coach Steve Kerr is reportedly signing a two-year contract to remain in the Bay Area, thus resolving the franchise's biggest question heading into the offseason. His return means it's still full steam ahead on the quest for another championship.

That doesn't provide a ton of clarity toward Green's short-term future, though.

Slater and colleagues Shams Charania and Ramona Shelburne reported Saturday that "the front office intends to be aggressive in rearranging the team to better compete for a playoff spot in a crowded conference."

Green's value to the Warriors over the years largely goes without saying. He has been an emotional leader for the squad, and his skill set made him the perfect complementary piece during their dynastic run.

But Kerr and general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. left emotion at the door when they bid adieu to Klay Thompson in 2024. They determined — correctly in retrospect — they couldn't give Thompson the role or the money he wanted.

If Golden State was willing to break up the "Splash Brothers," then it stands to reason Green isn't untouchable.

Ideally, the Warriors can make the necessary upgrades without losing Green. Should push come to shove, Dunleavy may not hesitate if Green's exit is what helps secure a marquee addition.