Steve Kerr, Joe Lacob, Warriors
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Head coach Steve Kerr (L) and governor Joe Lacob of the Golden State Warriors look on during a game between the Warriors and the San Antonio Spurs.
The Golden State Warriors remain the only team in the league without a trade or free-agent signing this offseason. Fans have grown restless, wondering when the front office will make its move.
Coming off a second-round playoff exit, the franchise has been caught in a holding pattern. Much of it ties back to Jonathan Kuminga, whose restricted free agency has stretched on for weeks. The 22-year-old wants more security than Golden State is willing to give, while the Warriors are looking at him as a potential trade piece once a deal is signed.
That situation has slowed everything else. But once Kuminga’s future is settled, the Warriors already have multiple signings lined up.
Via NBA insider Jake Fischer, Golden State is expected to bring in four players: Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton, Gary Payton II, and second-round pick Will Richard.
The Warriors are expected to sign Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton, Gary Payton II, and second-round draft pick Will Richard.
These signings are anticipated to come following resolution on the Jonathan Kuminga front.
(via @JakeLFischer)
— TheWarriorsTalk (@TheWarriorsTalk) August 28, 2025
What’s Next for Golden State?
The front office’s top priority remains Kuminga. Until his contract is finalized, the roster is essentially frozen. Fischer reported that the Warriors have long anticipated these signings, with everything hinging on how Kuminga’s situation shakes out.
“In [Malcolm] Brogdon’s case, Golden State’s long-running stalemate with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga has contributed to the uncomfortable wait,” Fischer wrote. “We won’t know if the Warriors emerge with more serious interest in Brogdon until the state of their roster and luxury tax bill becomes clear in the wake of a resolution to Kuminga’s fate and the subsequent signings that have been long anticipated to bring Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton, Gary Payton II and second-round pick Will Richard into the Bay Area fold.”
Warriors’ Expected Signings
Al Horford, Golden State Warriors
GettyAl Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics drives baseline past Buddy Hield #7 of the Golden State Warriors.
Al Horford: The veteran big man has been linked to the Warriors throughout the offseason. At 38, his experience and locker-room presence would be invaluable for a team chasing another ring.
Gary Payton II: Golden State is expected to re-sign its defensive ace. He has become a staple in the Warriors’ rotation and a fan favorite across multiple runs.
De’Anthony Melton: Injuries cut his last stint in Golden State short, but the guard is expected to make a return. If healthy, his defensive versatility and outside shooting would give the Warriors needed depth.
Will Richard: Golden State’s second-round pick will be officially signed once Kuminga’s situation is resolved. His development could be crucial for a roster balancing veterans and youth.
Beyond those names, the Warriors are also monitoring Malcolm Brogdon. But that pursuit is less certain, as both the New York Knicks and Minnesota Timberwolves are also interested.
The Warriors’ Reality
This offseason has been quiet in terms of moves, but not in terms of tension. Kuminga’s contract stalemate has defined everything. Once that cloud lifts, the Warriors are expected to act quickly, filling key roster spots and giving Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green the support they need for another run.
Golden State knows the clock is ticking. The roster cannot stay idle much longer if the franchise plans to maximize what’s left of Curry’s prime.