Warriors face roster uncertainty
The Golden State Warriors are navigating a period of change following their unsuccessful attempt to acquire LeBron James. This development means the team is largely relying on its core trio of Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green, alongside rookie Yaxel Landeborg and the return of Moses Moody. Butler is currently recovering from a torn ACL, but is anticipated to be ready before the playoffs.
Curry commented on the situation, stating, “That’s why you don’t envision anything until it happens. There’s a lot of moving parts.” He also acknowledged the challenges ahead for Golden State in the upcoming NBA season, noting that injuries to Butler and Moody significantly alter the team’s outlook. The Warriors‘ roster includes several players in their mid-30s, and Butler is recovering from a serious injury.
The team’s efforts to secure another star to play alongside Curry in the later stages of his career have faced setbacks. Previous attempts to trade for players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Anthony Davis, and Jaylen Brown were unsuccessful, with the acquisition of Jimmy Butler being their primary success, despite his current injury. Moody is also sidelined with a torn patellar tendon, contributing to concerns about the team’s ability to remain competitive in the Western Conference.
Hornets’ potential interest in Curry
Speculation has emerged regarding a potential move for Steph Curry to the Charlotte Hornets. Curry, a native of Charlotte, has a strong connection to the city, having attended Panthers games and been present for his father’s jersey retirement. He also has fond memories of his time in the Hornets locker room during the team’s earlier years.
The idea of “Bring Steph Home” has been a recurring theme among Hornets fans since the team, then the Bobcats, missed drafting Curry in 2009. This possibility is gaining traction given the Warriors‘ current situation and the Hornets‘ assets. Charlotte is considered one of the few teams with the resources that might consider acquiring a 38-year-old star for a developing roster. Curry has also previously mentioned Charlotte as a potential destination outside of Golden State.
From a strategic standpoint, Curry is seen as a suitable fit for the Hornets‘ playing style under Charles Lee, which emphasizes three-point shooting and rebounding. A potential lineup including Steph Curry, Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller, Naz Reid, and Hannes Steinbach could offer significant scoring from beyond the arc. The addition of Curry could also address public perception issues for the Hornets, particularly after the trade of LaMelo Ball.
Seth Curry watch the jersey retirement celebration with family during halftime of a basketball game between the Charlotte Hornets and the Orlando Magic at Spectrum Center on March 19, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images) | Getty Images” width=”960″ height=”640″ />However, questions remain about what the Hornets could realistically achieve in the Eastern Conference by adding Curry. While it might elevate them from a play-in team to a playoff team, it could also mean mortgaging a future that the team has worked to build through draft capital. The 2025 NBA Draft, for instance, brought in players like Knueppel, Kalkbrenner, and Sion James, indicating strong scouting potential.
Bringing in Curry could also impact the team’s leadership structure. Coby White re-signed with Charlotte with the expectation of a larger role at point guard, and the departure of Ball was anticipated to allow Miller and Knueppel to take on leadership positions. The arrival of Curry would likely shift the team’s dynamic, making the Hornets his team immediately.
Uncertain future for both teams
A trade involving Steph Curry would represent a significant move for the Warriors, given the long history and connection between Curry and the organization, including coach Steve Kerr. Despite the current challenges, a move of this magnitude would be substantial.
The most prudent course of action for the Warriors might be to observe the initial part of the season and identify potential trade opportunities at the deadline that could strengthen the team. Curry, who is on an expiring $62.6MM contract, could use this as leverage to encourage management to pursue roster upgrades. He does not wish to conclude his career on a mediocre team, especially after the Warriors‘ 37-45 season and a loss in the play-in tournament.
Source: sports.yahoo.com