The Warriors may be preparing for one final championship push, and Draymond Green and his latest contract decision could become the key that makes it all possible.
Green has reportedly declined his $27.7 million player option, a move designed to give Golden State additional salary flexibility as the organization explores the possibility of adding LeBron James. The larger vision, however, extends beyond just James.
“The plan isn’t just to acquire James, but to also make a play for Washington Wizards big man Anthony Davis, reuniting the former teammates who won a championship together with the Los Angleles Lakers in 2020,” wrote Morten Stig Jensen of Yahoo Sports.
If the Warriors can pull off both moves, Stephen Curry would be joined by James, Davis and Green in what would likely become the final championship chase of his career.
Financially, the situation remains complicated but not impossible. Curry is set to earn more than $62.5 million next season, while Jimmy Butler’s salary sits above $56.8 million. In this scenario, Butler would likely be included in a deal for Davis, with the veteran big man carrying a salary of roughly $58.4 million.
The report suggests Golden State would likely need to move additional contracts, with Moses Moody’s $12.5 million salary viewed as one possible avenue to create enough flexibility.
As a result, both James and Green could need to accept contracts below their previous salaries if the Warriors are serious about maximizing their title chances.
The biggest obstacle may ultimately come from Washington.
The Wizards have little urgency to move Davis, particularly after drafting AJ Dybantsa and continuing to develop Bilal Coulibaly and Kyshawn George.
Butler’s age, contract and recent ACL injury also complicate matters.
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