After a drawn-out stalemate, the Golden State Warriors began their season with a flurry of moves to improve their existing roster, with Jonathan Kuminga signing a two-year contract being the headline and ready for the upcoming season in this X post by the team:

This move closes the chapter on the organization’s issues with the young and talented forward, and the Big Three of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler also shared their perspectives on this topic. On a brighter note, the team was officially able to welcome veterans Al Horford, Seth Curry, and Gary Payton II. These moves are enormous for the Warriors, adding significant depth and experience to the franchise.

Kuminga’s Contract

Kuminga’s new contract is valued at $48.5 million for two years, with a team option in the second year. Sources reported that the team option was included at the team's urging, to which Kuminga stated, “It’s a business. At the end of the day, all that matters is that we got it done, and I’m excited to be here,” according to Kalyb Chamoion of NBA.com. His deal was structured for a potential trade in the future. Even in the midst of this news and the duration of contract negotiations, key veterans like Curry and Green expressed the importance of keeping the main thing the main thing: focusing on the upcoming season. Kuminga shares similar sentiments, conveying a commitment to contributing to the team’s success and winning a championship, despite lacking certainty about his future.

Knowing this, the Warriors should make a conscious effort to let Kuminga showcase his abilities on the court. One reason is that he can be a key piece with the way their roster is currently constructed. Additionally, if plans are to part ways with him, allowing him to showcase his abilities consistently could improve his trade value. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists while shooting 45.4% from the field and 30.5% from three in 24.3 minutes per game. For a player with inconsistent minutes, playing alongside three stars like Curry, Green, and Butler shows how capable he is of contributing on a much higher level.

Veteran Additions and Injury Updates

In the wake of the stalemate with Kuminga coming to an end, the Warriors were finally able to sign multiple veterans to bolster their roster. Al Horford is joining the dynasty, replacing Kevin Looney at the center position. He brings defensive prowess, floor spacing, and experience. Seth Curry, Steph Curry’s younger brother, is also joining the team, in what he and Kerr consider the perfect time to team up. “I know their style. I know how they play. I should be able to fit right in, whatever they need,” according to Sam Gordon of the San Francisco Chronicle. His shot-making ability and competitiveness will be tremendous for them.

Gary Payton II, a significant player for the team since his initial stint, is resigning with the Warriors. His energy and defensive tenacity should prove valuable. Lastly, De’Anthony Melton, a free-agent guard, has also re-signed with the team, but is recovering from a left ACL injury and will be sidelined for the entirety of the preseason and potentially the start of the regular season. When healthy, he can make an impact on both sides of the floor, having the ability to guard on the perimeter defensively and make shots on the offensive end.

2025-26 Season Outlook: A Refined Title Contender

Following their 48-34 campaign last season that ended with a painful playoff exit to the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Warriors are hoping to advance further this season. Acquiring Jimmy Butler proved to be transformative, as they had a 23-8 record following his arrival. The team now possesses a more apparent identity and a winning mentality. They have two bona fide closers in the Butler-Curry tandem, and Green remains their defensive anchor and glue that holds the team up, with Butler stating, “I get to do this thing from day one,” Butler said. “Be with the guys from day one and do what we started to do from the very beginning. I’m super hyped,” according to Ron Kroichick. Al Horford will be a big help to Green, who can now primarily play the four and let Horford handle bigger bodies.

While the loss of Klay Thompson signaled the end of the “Splash Brothers” era and took away from the team’s shooting presence, the additions of Melton, Seth Curry, and Horford provide a great complementary cast of shooters and defenders around their core players. The biggest question that remains is whether Kuminga can make an impact or if he’ll be a mid-season trade piece. For now, Golden State enters training camp more equipped to compete with the rest of the daunting Western Conference. This season should offer a nostalgic ride for fans, as the veterans chase one last championship ring.