Draymond Green has cast doubt on Steve Kerr’s future with the Golden State Warriors. Green believes Kerr will not be with the organisation next season.
Draymond Green’s Opinion
Speaking on his podcast, Green indicated that the Warriors’ recent loss to the Phoenix Suns, which eliminated them from playoff contention, felt like an ending. “I hope he’s our coach next season,” Green said. “You want my opinion? I think not. Just because it feels like that. It felt like that was it.”
Kerr’s Warriors Legacy
Kerr became the Warriors’ head coach before the 2014-15 season. The Warriors won four NBA titles under Kerr. They also reached the NBA Finals six times in eight years.
However, the Warriors’ performance this past season saw them finish with a 37-45 record. They have now missed the playoffs for the second time in three years. Following the loss to the Suns, Kerr had an emotional moment with both Green and Stephen Curry, saying, “I don’t know what’s going to happen next, but I love you guys to death. Thank you. Appreciate you.”
Kerr’s Uncertainty
Kerr himself admitted the possibility that he may not be with the Warriors next season. He stated he would “take a week or two” before meeting with owner Joe Lacob and general manager Mike Dunleavy. “I don’t know what’s going to happen,” Kerr said. “I still love coaching, but I get it. These jobs all have an expiration date. There’s a run that happens, and sometimes it’s time for new blood and new ideas and all that.
“If that’s the case, then I will be nothing but grateful for the most amazing opportunity any person could have to coach in front of our fans in the Bay, to coach Steph Curry, to coach Dray, the whole group. It may still go on, it may not. I don’t know at this point.”
Possible Replacements
Yahoo Sports reported that the Warriors are expected to consider Florida coach Todd Golden if Kerr departs. According to ESPN, Kerr has been conflicted about his future recently, with his return being only about 50% likely. The team reportedly wants “to hear Kerr express a hunger to continue executing the nitty-gritty details of the daily job,” according to ESPN. The organisation wants Kerr to sign a multi-year deal if he wishes to return.
Players’ Futures Also Unclear
Curry has one season remaining on his current contract. Green has one year left on his four-year, $100 million deal, with a player option for the following season.
Green expressed uncertainty about his own future. “I’ve never been so uncertain since earlier in my career in what happens next,” Green said on his podcast. “But I’m truly at a loss now because you don’t know what direction”
The Warriors face a period of uncertainty regarding the future of their coach and key players.