Kristaps Porzingis is expected to be part of the equation again next year, provided the Warriors can agree on a contract and manage his health. While valuable, keeping him is contingent on finding the right financial and medical fit, making this a key but uncertain piece of the puzzle.
Trade chatter has linked the Warriors to major veterans such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kawhi Leonard, and LeBron James, but such moves would be more feasible with Butler out of the equation. In other words, big-name pursuits are more likely to hinge on how Butler’s contract is handled.
The mechanics are clear for a major roster upgrade: to add a max-salary player, the Warriors would likely need to move Butler, given the current payroll structure. With Curry and Green locked in and Butler rehabbing from ACL surgery, executives say the math only supports a significant restructuring if Butler is traded.
There is a slim chance for a bargain pickup through free agency, but it’s a longshot scenario for Leonard or James. Leonard’s situation depends on potential sanctions related to his Clippers contract, while James would require either a sign-and-trade or a willingness to take a substantially reduced deal—both unlikely paths that hinge on unlikely conditions.
In short, the Warriors’ offseason will largely revolve around Butler’s status and the potential retooling around Porzingis, with any major shift likely tied to whether Butler is moved or kept. The decisions in these weeks will help define whether Curry’s era continues with a new supporting cast or pivots toward a different championship trajectory.
