The Golden State Warriors find themselves in an intriguing situation this season. While the term "soft tanking" might be a bit harsh, there's no denying that the team is navigating a challenging period.
Stephen Curry, the heart of the Warriors, has been sidelined since January 30 due to a knee issue, and the team has struggled in his absence, posting a 6-12 record during that stretch. With a bottom-10 net offensive and defensive rating, it's clear that the Warriors are in a rebuilding phase, whether intentional or not.
Curry's knee injury is legitimate, and the Warriors are understandably cautious about his return. According to ESPN's Anthony Slater, there's a genuine concern about risking long-term damage to Curry's knee, which has been described as "unpredictable." Despite Curry's competitive spirit and desire to return, the smart move might be to keep him sidelined for the remainder of the season.
The Warriors are dealing with more than just Curry's absence. Key players like Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, Al Horford, Kristaps Porziņģis, and De'Anthony Melton have all been dealing with injuries. As coach Steve Kerr put it, the team is "about as beaten up as any team I can ever remember."
With this in mind, the Warriors have a strategic opportunity. By keeping Curry out, they might secure a higher draft pick, which could be pivotal for their future. They have the potential to trade up to five first-round picks this summer, making their 2026 pick crucial in terms of market value.
The Warriors have a chance to build a contender around Curry for one last run next season. Contracts for Curry, Green, Butler, and Kerr all conclude in 2027, making next season a critical juncture. The focus should be on assembling the best trade package possible this summer to maximize their chances.
While the Warriors are likely to make the Play-In Tournament, staying in the 9th or 10th spot would give them a better chance to secure a high lottery pick. The goal is not to rise to 8th, which would require winning two Play-In games and could jeopardize their draft position.
The Warriors can learn from the Dallas Mavericks' experience last year. The Mavericks nearly missed out on a high lottery pick by allowing Anthony Davis to play in the Play-In Tournament, but luck was on their side, and they secured Cooper Flagg. The Warriors should avoid similar risks.
This season is essentially a stepping stone for the Warriors. Their focus should be on the future, starting with this summer's draft.
Curry's desire to play is understandable, but the long-term strategy should take precedence. The decision seems clear: prioritize the future by securing the best possible draft position and setting the stage for a strong comeback next season.