Due to the NBA’s salary cap rules, the cost of maintaining a competitive roster is high, making this season crucial for the Golden State Warriors. Klay Thompson was in a contract year, and in a bid to improve the team, the Warriors traded Jordan Poole (and others) to Washington for Chris Paul. The Golden State Warriors finished with two more regular-season wins than in 2022–23, but the West’s strength meant they had to compete in the play-in tournament. A road loss to the Kings ended the season for Steve Kerr’s team, and lead executive Mike Dunleavy Jr. has some crucial issues to address this summer.
Record: 46-36 (10th, West)
Offensive Rating: 116.9 (9th)
Defensive Rating: 114.5 (15th)
Net Rating: 2.4 (13th)
Pace: 99.91 (11th)
2024 NBA Draft Picks: 52
Key Offseason Considerations
- Klay Thompson’s Future: Thompson’s contract situation needs resolution. If he leaves via free agency, it would mark the end of an era for the “Splash Brothers” and Draymond Green.
- Chris Paul’s Contract: Paul’s $30 million contract for next season becomes guaranteed on June 28. Given the Warriors’ salary cap situation, retaining him may not be feasible.
Golden State Warriors Fantasy Basketball Standouts
Stephen Curry
Curry was the standout fantasy player for the Warriors, finishing as a top 25 player in both 8- and 9-cat per-game value formats. Despite not matching his Yahoo ADP (6.7), Curry remained productive. In 74 games, he averaged 26.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 0.7 steals, and 4.8 3-pointers, with shooting splits of 45.0% from the field and 92.3% from the foul line. While his overall stats saw slight declines, the 74 games were the most he played since the 2016–17 season, showing durability.
Jonathan Kuminga
Kuminga’s fantasy value improved significantly, especially when given a larger role. He played 74 games (46 starts) and averaged 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.5 blocks, and 0.7 3-pointers. His shooting splits were 52.9% from the field and 74.6% from the foul line. As a starter, his stats were even better, making him a player to watch for next season.
Fantasy Disappointments
Andrew Wiggins
Wiggins had an ADP of 90.0 but did not live up to expectations, finishing outside the top 200 in 8- and 9-cat formats. In 71 games, he averaged 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.6 blocks, and 1.3 3-pointers, shooting 45.3% from the field and 75.1% from the foul line. His slow start hampered his fantasy value, making him a risky top-100 pick for next season.
Golden State Warriors Other Notable Players
Draymond Green
Green’s value was limited by injuries and suspensions, playing only 55 games. He averaged 8.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.9 blocks, and 0.9 3-pointers, with shooting splits of 49.7% from the field and 73.0% from the line. Despite top-100 per-game value, his availability remains a concern.
Klay Thompson
Thompson’s numbers dipped compared to the previous season, averaging 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.5 blocks, and 3.5 3-pointers, with shooting splits of 43.2% from the field and 92.7% from the line. His role as a starter or reserve impacted his fantasy value, and his free agency adds uncertainty.
Chris Paul
Paul transitioned to a bench role, averaging 9.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.3 3-pointers in 26.4 minutes. While his per-game value was just inside the top 100, his scoring was the lowest of his career, making him a risky top-75 pick unless he secures a more stable role.
Brandin Podziemski
Podziemski had a solid rookie season, earning All-Rookie first-team honors. He averaged 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 0.8 steals, and 1.2 3-pointers in 26.6 minutes. His role is expected to grow, especially if Thompson and Paul leave.
Trayce Jackson-Davis
Jackson-Davis showed promise, especially as a starter, averaging 11.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.8 steals, and 1.7 blocks in 25.4 minutes. His per-36 numbers were impressive, making him a potential starting center and a valuable fantasy pick.
Moses Moody
Moody’s production improved but not as significantly as Kuminga’s. He averaged 8.1 points, 3.0 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.6 steals, and 1.1 3-pointers in 17.5 minutes. His fantasy value is limited unless he secures a larger role.
Kevon Looney
Looney’s fantasy value decreased compared to the previous season. He averaged 4.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.4 steals, and 0.4 blocks in 16.1 minutes. With Jackson-Davis emerging, Looney’s fantasy relevance is minimal.
Looking Ahead
The Golden State Warriors face an offseason filled with significant decisions that will impact their fantasy outlook for next season. Key players’ potential departures, coupled with emerging young talent, create an intriguing dynamic. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on roster changes and role definitions heading into the 2024–25 season.
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