By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Golden State Warriors are strongly signaling a desire to keep their legendary core intact, with general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. firmly declaring his expectation that both Stephen Curry and Draymond Green will retire with the franchise.
Addressing the superstar point guard’s impending contract extension eligibility, the team executive reinforced the player’s long-standing dedication to the only NBA home he has ever known.
“There’s two things I’m confident about with Steph,” he stated during a media session on Tuesday. “He really, really wants to win, and he wants to finish his career as a Warrior. I don’t think that changes tomorrow, August 29, start of the season, middle of the season, end of next season. Those things are going to be consistent.”
While rumors always swirl, the front office made it clear that the organization is not entertaining any scenarios that involve moving their cornerstone. Dunleavy acknowledged the leverage the future Hall of Famer holds, but dismissed any immediate anxiety regarding a potential departure.
“Ultimately it’s his call, his decision, whether that’s allowing his contract to run out and move on,” he said on the Akron native. “Look, if he comes to me and wants to be moved, Joe [Lacob] and I will talk it through. We wouldn’t love it. But he’s earned the right to do what he wants. But as far as the messaging or any idea that he’d be anywhere else, that’s not a thing we’re looking at, or he’s looking at.”
Beyond Curry, team leadership is mirroring that same enduring sentiment for his veteran co-star. The GM and former player praised Green’s recent team-first financial flexibility, which allowed management additional roster wiggle room during the offseason, including the failed pursuit of LeBron James. “He’s no different than Steph in the sense of we hope he retires a Warrior,” he reiterated that a unified standard remains the top priority.
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