The Golden State Warriors have had a surprising start just one day before NBA free agency begins, with Draymond Green declining his $27.7 million player option to become an unrestricted free agent.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Green’s decision is not viewed as the end of his time in Golden State. Instead, it is a calculated move designed to give the Warriors greater financial flexibility as they aggressively pursue LeBron James in free agency and Anthony Davis in a blockbuster trade.
Just days ago, the Warriors publicly stated they expected Green to exercise his option. Instead, the veteran forward has chosen to opt out, opening additional pathways for general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. as Golden State attempts to build another championship contender around Stephen Curry.
Green is widely expected to return to the Warriors on a new long-term contract. The expectation around the league is that he will accept a lower annual salary in exchange for additional years, allowing Golden State to reduce its immediate payroll while keeping one of the franchise’s cornerstones in place.
The financial flexibility comes as the Warriors continue to explore one of the most ambitious offseason plans in the NBA. Golden State is actively pursuing a reunion between LeBron James and Anthony Davis in the Bay Area.
The reported plan involves acquiring Davis from the Washington Wizards before attempting to convince James to leave the Lakers in free agency. The pitch would center around reuniting the championship-winning duo while pairing them with Stephen Curry and Green under head coach Steve Kerr.
Adding Davis would not be simple.
The Warriors would almost certainly need to include Jimmy Butler, who is entering the final year of his contract while recovering from a torn ACL, along with multiple draft picks to match Davis’ $58.4 million salary. Whether Washington would have any interest in such a package remains the biggest obstacle.
Still, Green’s decision suggests Golden State is serious about creating every possible avenue before free agency officially opens on June 30. Even if neither Davis nor James ultimately arrives, Green’s new contract could still benefit the organization.
Last season, the 36-year-old averaged 8.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists while shooting 41.8% from the field and 32.6% from three-point range. His defensive versatility, leadership and chemistry with Curry remain irreplaceable despite his advancing age.
By replacing his one-year player option with a multi-year agreement at a reduced salary, the Warriors create additional cap flexibility without sacrificing one of the leaders of their dynasty.
Whether those plans ultimately result in LeBron James, Anthony Davis, or another blockbuster addition remains to be seen. But Green’s opt-out represents far more than a contract decision. It is the clearest sign yet that Golden State is preparing to take an aggressive swing at another championship before free agency officially begins.
