Warriors continue to explore options during contract decision

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Golden State Warriors are still considering transfer options for veteran point guard Chris Paul as the team makes its contract decision.

“The Warriors, league sources say, have continued to explore their transfer options with Paul’s trade-friendly contract in conjunction with Wednesday’s draft, as well as the prospect of moving Friday’s deadline to July if Paul agrees to that change (as previously covered here),” Stein wrote.

Golden State has until Friday to decide whether to exercise Paul’s $30 million team option for the 2024-25 season.

Paul averaged 9.2 points, 6.8 assists and 3.9 rebounds per game and was used primarily from the bench in his 19th NBA season.

While his performance on the field is not what it once was, his leadership qualities are, and that is why head coach Steve Kerr is keeping him on the team.

“Chris has been fantastic, not only on the field but in his leadership role. … He’s one of our best players. … I love coaching Chris (Paul). I really hope we get him back next year,” Kerr said, according to Alder Almo of Heavy Sports.

But Kerr’s wish to keep Paul may not come to fruition as Golden State looks for a potential trade this week. The Warriors are looking to reopen their championship window after missing the playoffs entirely this season, and upgrading their backup point guard would likely help that goal.

The ageing former star Paul is still aiming for his first championship title and hopes that when his time at Golden State is over, he will find a place with a finals contender – either through a transfer or as a free agent.