The 2023 offseason marks the dawn of a new era for the Golden State Warriors. After a remarkable 13-season tenure, Klay Thompson has parted ways with the team, leaving an indelible mark on the organization and a palpable void in the roster. As the Warriors transition, they aim to blend their championship pedigree with fresh additions, all under the leadership of Stephen Curry.
With Thompson's departure, the Warriors' core now comprises Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, Andrew Wiggins, and Kevon Looney. These veterans are joined by new faces, including Buddy Hield, De'Anthony Melton, Lindy Waters III, and Kyle Anderson. The younger talents—Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, and Trayce Jackson-Davis—are also set to step up, embodying the future of Golden State.
Draymond Green reflected on the changes within the team. “With Klay leaving here, things just look different, it feels different. It's not the same thing anymore. For so long it’s just been the same thing.” Green's sentiments encapsulate the bittersweet transition for the Warriors as they navigate the post-Thompson era.
Stephen Curry acknowledged the need for adaptation amidst the shift. “I know there's a Warrior mentality and culture of how we do things, there's a system that we ran for a decade-plus that has worked. It doesn't necessarily mean that's how this team needs to play.” This season, the Warriors' offense will be simplified, moving away from the intricate systems that have defined their play in previous years.
Thompson's influence extended beyond the court. Jonathan Kuminga remarked, “I think a lot of people don’t know who Klay is off the court. He's a great guy...he enjoys spending time with people, he enjoys talking to people.” Kevon Looney echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Thompson's integral role in the team's ethos: “He kind of showed us the Warrior way and how to play and how to carry yourself.”
Gary Payton II highlighted the unique aspects of Thompson's on-court presence. “Just his energy on and off the court. Especially we are going to miss him on the court. We know what he brings. He's a tough-shot maker, tough-shot taker. You can't really duplicate that, what he does.” Yet Payton also injected some competitive spirit, adding, “We're going to miss him, but excited to kick his ass pretty soon.”
The importance of depth in the Warriors' championship aspirations was underlined by Draymond Green, who stated, "Championships are won six through 10. Championships aren't won one through five." This philosophy underscores the necessity for contributions from every player, especially those beyond the starting lineup.
Amidst these adjustments, the Warriors remain steadfast in their commitment to maintaining their competitive edge. The Phoenix Suns, for instance, retain only one player, Devin Booker, from their 2021 Finals run, signifying the rapid evolution within teams across the league.
The Warriors' strategy this season will revolve around integrating new players while leveraging the experiences and wisdom of their seasoned veterans. The simplified offensive approach, coupled with the infusion of youthful energy and seasoned skill, sets the stage for an intriguing season ahead.
As Stephen Curry continues to lead, the essence of the Warrior mentality endures, albeit with necessary adaptations. The collective aim remains unwavering: to stay competitive and build upon their storied legacy.