October 20th 2024.
The Warriors had a productive day at practice on Sunday, focusing on extensive scrimmages and a thorough film review. Head coach Steve Kerr saw this as the team's final day of training camp, with the regular season set to kick off on Wednesday in Portland. As the team prepares for the season opener, they plan to take it easy for the next two days leading up to it.
However, the most pressing matter right now is the looming deadline for Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody to sign contract extensions. They have until 3 p.m. on Monday to come to an agreement with the Warriors, or else they will become restricted free agents at the end of the season. Kerr has met with both players individually to offer his advice, although he recognizes that the final decisions lie with general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. and the front office staff.
"I trust Mike and his group, and I also talk to my players," Kerr explained after Sunday's practice. "As their coach and leader, it's my job to guide and support them. Of course, I would love for both of them to sign extensions, but I also understand that they have to weigh their options. They're both amazing to coach and they continue to improve every day. As a coach, it's incredibly gratifying to see my players sign life-changing contracts. That's a big part of my role - helping them become the best players they can be and providing for their families. I hope we can get it done, but ultimately it's up to them."
Kerr also admitted that he doesn't envy the job of a general manager. Having previously served as the general manager for the Phoenix Suns from 2007 to 2010, he is familiar with the negotiations and discussions with agents. However, he is content with his current role and doesn't miss the responsibilities of a GM.
For Kuminga and Moody, the decision to sign an extension with the Warriors means they must commit to a team where their roles have been limited during their time in Golden State. As members of the championship team, they didn't see much playing time as rookies. Kuminga, the more highly-touted prospect, has shown significant improvement and has become a key contributor with an average of 16.1 points per game. Moody has also performed well when given the opportunity, but has often found himself on the outskirts of the rotation.
Just as the Warriors must decide if they want to commit to these young players, Kuminga and Moody must also determine if they want to stay with the team for the long haul. If they do agree to an extension, it becomes challenging for the Warriors to trade them during the 2024-25 season. However, it provides them with financial security and stability for their families, as well as protection against the risk of injury.
On the other hand, not signing an extension gives them the potential to earn more money in restricted free agency, either with the Warriors or with another team. While Golden State has the right to match any offer they receive, there is a chance that another team may be willing to pay them more than what the Warriors are comfortable with. As of now, the Brooklyn Nets are the only team projected to have more than $30 million in cap space next summer.
This is a significant decision for both players, and there's no clear answer. Kevon Looney, a veteran presence in the Warriors' locker room, advises his younger teammates to focus on what they can control. "When you do the right things, play the right way, and have a winning mindset, things usually work out for the best," Looney said. "Luckily, JK and Moses are two of the most professional guys I know. Despite their young age, they carry themselves with maturity. They understand our team's culture and what it takes to succeed. If they continue to sacrifice for the team and perform at a high level, they will be rewarded. So I hope everything works out for them."
Looney also mentioned that while Kuminga hasn't always been the most professional, he has seen significant growth in that area. At just 22 years old, Kuminga has had to navigate the NBA and a new country while also providing for his family, including two children. "I've seen him become more professional since his rookie year," Looney commented. "He comes in and puts in the work, even on days when he's not happy with his situation. He might have personal issues to deal with, but he always shows up and talks basketball. He loves the game."
From the Warriors' perspective, maintaining flexibility with their roster during the season is a top priority. However, they are also willing to commit to their homegrown players at the right price, as evident from their history. But they have also learned lessons, such as the mistake of extending Jordan Poole too early and the potential burden of Andrew Wiggins' contract if he doesn't improve from last season.
It's a lot for Kuminga and Moody to consider as they weigh their options. "I've talked to both of them about this," said Kerr. "I've shared my experiences as a player in a similar situation. Unfortunately, I was never offered an extension. But I know what it's like to be worried about contracts - I've played on minimum contracts and non-guaranteed contracts, trying to make the team. I've also been in situations where I had more leverage. Every player's circumstances are unique. But as someone who has been in their shoes, I like to offer my thoughts and advice if they need it."
In other news, star player Steph Curry practiced in full on Sunday and is expected to be ready for the regular season. Additionally, Kerr confirmed that Blake Hinson and Jackson Rowe will remain in the organization with the G League Santa Cruz Warriors, along with Kevin Knox II, who was waived on Saturday afternoon. "I truly believe that Kevin belongs in the NBA," Kerr said. "He's a great player and has been in the league for a while. He has the potential to build a successful career. Now it's up to him to decide what he wants to do. If things don't work out elsewhere, we would love to have him back with Santa Cruz. But ultimately, it's his decision."
As the Warriors wrap up their preseason and prepare for the regular season, Kerr is faced with the difficult task of finalizing the rotation and making tough decisions about players who won't be in the opening night lineup. While the starting lineup has not been officially announced, Kerr has a good idea of who will be on the court for the first game. In the last preseason game, the full-strength starting lineup was Curry, Kuminga, Wiggins, Green, and Trayce Jackson-Davis.
"This is the toughest decision-making I've had to do in terms of the bench players," Kerr admitted. "I feel confident in playing every guy on this team. It's going to be a challenge to manage everyone's minutes. But it's a good problem to have. I'm grateful for this deep roster. Now it's just a matter of figuring out who will be in the rotation."
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