As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, the Golden State Warriors find themselves at a critical juncture in their franchise’s trajectory. General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. has been vocal about the team’s strategy, emphasizing a balanced approach that prioritizes both immediate competitiveness and long-term sustainability. With the Warriors aiming to remain championship contenders while simultaneously integrating younger talent, Dunleavy’s vision for the draft will play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s future.
The Warriors’ recent seasons have been a mix of triumph and transition. After winning their fourth championship in eight years in 2022, the team has faced challenges, including aging stars, injuries, and the emergence of younger teams in the Western Conference. Stephen Curry, despite being in the latter stages of his career, remains one of the league’s elite players, but the front office recognizes the need to build around him wisely. Klay Thompson’s future with the team has been a topic of speculation, and Draymond Green’s leadership remains invaluable, but the Warriors must infuse fresh talent to stay competitive.
Dunleavy, who took over as GM in 2023, has been tasked with navigating this delicate balance. In recent interviews, he outlined the Warriors’ draft strategy, highlighting several key priorities. First and foremost, the team is looking for players who can contribute immediately while also possessing upside for development. Given Golden State’s win-now mentality, rookies who can adapt quickly to Steve Kerr’s system will be prioritized. However, Dunleavy also stressed the importance of drafting for the future, acknowledging that the Warriors cannot rely solely on their veteran core forever.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Warriors’ draft strategy is their positioning. Depending on how the lottery shakes out, Golden State could be selecting anywhere from the mid-lottery to the late teens. This range presents both opportunities and challenges. If the Warriors land a higher pick, they may have a chance to select a potential star who can grow alongside Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Brandin Podziemski. If they pick later, they may focus on a more polished player who can provide depth right away.
Dunleavy has also been open about the team’s willingness to explore trade scenarios. The Warriors have a history of making bold moves, including trading for Andrew Wiggins (who played a crucial role in their 2022 title run) and drafting James Wiseman (a move that didn’t pan out as hoped). This year, Dunleavy has not ruled out packaging their draft pick with a player to acquire an established veteran who can help the team win now. Names like Pascal Siakam or Karl-Anthony Towns have been floated in trade rumors, though nothing is concrete.
Another factor in the Warriors’ draft strategy is their financial situation. The team has been one of the highest-spending franchises in the league, consistently paying hefty luxury tax bills. While ownership has shown a willingness to spend for championships, there is also an understanding that long-term financial flexibility is necessary. Drafting a player on a cost-controlled rookie contract could provide much-needed relief while adding talent to the roster.
When it comes to specific prospects, the Warriors have been linked to several players who fit their system. Given their need for size and versatility, big men like Donovan Clingan or Kyle Filipowski could be targets if they fall to Golden State’s range. Both players offer defensive prowess and offensive skills that align with the Warriors’ motion-heavy offense. Alternatively, if the team looks to add more wing depth, prospects like Baylor’s Ja’Kobe Walter or Tennessee’s Dalton Knecht could be appealing due to their shooting and athleticism.
One name that has generated buzz among Warriors fans is Nikola Topić, the Serbian guard who has impressed overseas with his playmaking and scoring ability. While the Warriors already have Curry and Podziemski in the backcourt, Topić’s upside might be too enticing to pass up if he’s available. Dunleavy has emphasized that the team will select the best player available rather than reaching for positional need, a philosophy that has served them well in the past.
Beyond the draft, the Warriors’ offseason strategy will also hinge on free agency and potential extensions. Thompson’s contract situation looms large, and the team must decide whether to re-sign him or explore sign-and-trade possibilities. Additionally, the development of younger players like Kuminga and Moody will influence how aggressively the Warriors pursue veterans via trade. Dunleavy has expressed confidence in the team’s young core but acknowledges that adding the right pieces is essential to maximizing Curry’s remaining prime years.
The 2025 draft represents a pivotal moment for the Warriors. With Curry still playing at an MVP level, the window for another championship remains open, but the margin for error is slim. The Western Conference is stacked with talented teams like the Denver Nuggets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Dallas Mavericks, meaning Golden State must make every move count. Dunleavy’s approach—balancing immediate impact with future potential—reflects the complexity of the team’s current situation.
In many ways, the Warriors’ draft strategy mirrors the philosophy that brought them their previous titles: a blend of star power, depth, and adaptability. Whether they choose to draft a ready-now contributor, swing for a high-upside prospect, or trade the pick for a proven player, the decision will have lasting implications. Dunleavy’s ability to navigate this offseason will be a defining factor in whether the Warriors can reclaim their place atop the NBA or face a more prolonged transition period.
As draft night approaches, all eyes will be on Golden State. The Warriors’ front office, led by Dunleavy, has a track record of bold decisions, and this year promises to be no different. With a mix of urgency and foresight, the team is poised to make moves that could shape the next chapter of their storied franchise. Whether through the draft, trades, or free agency, one thing is certain: the Warriors are not content to stand still. Their strategy reflects a commitment to excellence, both now and in the years to come.
