Veteran Reflects on Golden State’s Youth, Roster Changes, and Championship Aspirations
After a whirlwind NBA season that ended earlier than hoped, Golden State Warriors veteran Draymond Green is already shifting gears to the summer. On the latest episode of The Draymond Green Show, the four-time NBA champion sat down with former Warrior and two-time All-Star Baron Davis to unpack what’s ahead for Golden State. The wide-ranging discussion touched on everything from Jonathan Kuminga’s impending contract decision to the team’s commitment to chasing another championship, even as the roster faces inevitable change.
Green, now a vocal leader both on and off the court, wasn’t shy about the challenges facing his squad. While he expressed deep admiration for the Warriors’ young core, he also acknowledged the reality of NBA roster dynamics.
“When I look at our young guys, they all show promise… but just off sheer numbers and the way this business works, probably not all will be back,” Green admitted.
It was a candid assessment that reflects both his understanding of the game’s business side and the deep affection he has for the Warriors’ emerging talents.
Podziemski, Moody, Kuminga & Co: A Promising Young Core
Green didn’t just speak in generalities. He made a point to highlight the specific players who have made tangible strides this past season — Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, Jonathan Kuminga, Trayce Jackson-Davis, Gui Santos, and Quinten Post. For Green, it wasn’t just about numbers, but attitude and consistency.
He praised their work ethic and growth, noting that these aren’t just young players filling out a roster — they’ve each made cases to be meaningful contributors going forward.
“Those guys have been grinding. They work, they want to be better, and that shows,” he said. “I’ve been there, man. You just want to be seen and trusted.”
But with that growth comes tough decisions, particularly around Jonathan Kuminga, who’s entering a critical juncture in his young career.
Draymond on Kuminga’s Extension: “That Has to Look Different”
Of all the Warriors’ young talents, Kuminga has perhaps drawn the most intrigue — and scrutiny. The 21-year-old forward made noticeable strides this season and was often a bright spot during some of the Warriors’ rockier stretches. But with a significant contract extension now looming, the stakes are rising.
“You’re going to have to evaluate Jonathan Kuminga… it’s a huge financial commitment,” Green noted. “That has to look different for him, first and foremost.”
Green wasn’t calling for Kuminga to change his game, necessarily, but was highlighting the gravity of entering the big-money phase of an NBA career. For a team like Golden State — which has long relied on star power, depth, and salary cap maneuvering — such decisions can shape the future of a franchise.
Still, Green had high praise for Kuminga’s maturity during his exit interviews with team management.
“I love the way he handled it… that was such a responsible, great, well-thought answer,” Green said. “He will get paid here, or he will get paid somewhere else.”
It was a reminder that even as Kuminga’s future remains uncertain in the Bay Area, his trajectory in the league looks promising.
Championship Belief Still Runs Deep
Despite a rollercoaster season that ended without a playoff run, Green made it clear he’s far from discouraged. The Warriors, after all, still have Stephen Curry leading the charge, and as long as the core remains intact, Green believes they can still contend.
“I personally believe wholeheartedly… we will be right there next year giving ourselves a shot,” he stated with confidence.
That belief isn’t rooted in nostalgia or past glory, but in the understanding of what it takes to win — and the willingness to do the dirty work behind the scenes to make that happen.
He emphasized the importance of conversations among key players like himself, Curry, and even close friend Jimmy Butler — who may be on the Warriors’ radar this offseason — in order to steer the team in the right direction.
“You just got to have a conversation… what can be seen from the stands or from some numbers — it ain’t always what it seems,” Green said.
Building the Next Warriors Chapter
While Draymond Green has never been one to sugarcoat, his words often serve as a window into the Warriors’ locker room — a space defined by championship culture, accountability, and relentless drive. And from his latest comments, it’s clear that while the franchise may be entering a transition phase, the hunger remains intact.
Whether the front office leans into youth development, swings big in free agency, or pursues trades to fortify the roster, Green intends to be a key part of the decision-making fabric. He stressed that plans are already being drawn behind closed doors, with the goal as always remaining the same.
“We’ll be in the weeds… trying to make it all make sense,” Green concluded. “The goals will be the goals — trying to win a championship. I stand on that 100%.”
In many ways, that sums up the Warriors‘ ethos. Even as they confront roster turnover and financial constraints, the ambition remains sky-high. And with Draymond Green — still as fiery, passionate, and outspoken as ever — leading the charge, don’t expect Golden State to fade quietly into the background.
What’s Next for Golden State?
The coming offseason will be pivotal. Decisions on Jonathan Kuminga’s extension, possible roster additions or subtractions, and the future of players like Klay Thompson (also due for a new deal) will shape what Golden State looks like when the 2025 season tips off.
But if there’s one constant through all the speculation, it’s that the Warriors still believe they can win. And that belief, driven by voices like Draymond Green’s, may be just as important as any blockbuster move or cap-space strategy.
Whatever path the Warriors choose, one thing is certain: they’re not ready to write the final chapter of their dynasty just yet.
