Golden State Warriors’ 2025-26 Projected Roster Revealed: A Mix of Veterans and Young Talent
With the 2025-26 NBA season approaching, the Golden State Warriors’ roster is taking shape after an eventful offseason. While the team has seen significant changes—including the departure of Klay Thompson—the core of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green remains intact, surrounded by a mix of rising young players and savvy veterans. Here’s a look at the Warriors’ projected roster and what fans can expect next season.
—
### **Backcourt: Curry Leads, Podziemski and Melton Step Up**
**Stephen Curry (PG)** – The two-time MVP remains the heart and soul of the Warriors. Even at 37, Curry is coming off another elite season (26.4 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5.1 APG) and will once again be the focal point of the offense.
**Brandin Podziemski (SG)** – After a strong rookie year, Podziemski is expected to take on a bigger role following Thompson’s exit. His playmaking, rebounding, and improving three-point shooting (38.5% last season) make him a key piece in the backcourt.
**De’Anthony Melton (SG/PG)** – Signed in free agency, Melton brings defense, three-point shooting (36.9% career 3PT), and versatility. He’ll likely split time between starting and sixth-man duties.
**Lindell Wigginton (PG)** – A two-way contract standout, Wigginton could earn backup minutes as a sparkplug scorer.
—
### **Wings: Kuminga’s Breakout Year? Moody and Hield Add Depth**
**Jonathan Kuminga (SF/PF)** – With Thompson gone, Kuminga is poised for a breakout season. His athleticism and improved scoring (16.1 PPG last year) make him a potential 20-PPG candidate if given starter minutes.
**Moses Moody (SG/SF)** – Moody has shown flashes of being a reliable 3-and-D wing. This could be his make-or-break season to secure a long-term role.
**Buddy Hield (SG/SF)** – Acquired in a sign-and-trade, Hield provides elite shooting (40% career 3PT) to space the floor for Curry and Green.
**Andrew Wiggins (SF)** – After a down year, Wiggins will look to bounce back. His defense and scoring will be crucial if the Warriors contend.
—
### **Frontcourt: Draymond Anchors, Jackson-Davis Emerges**
**Draymond Green (PF/C)** – The defensive leader and emotional engine of the team. His playmaking and defense remain vital, even as his scoring declines.
**Trayce Jackson-Davis (C/PF)** – A revelation as a rookie, Jackson-Davis could start at center. His rim protection, rebounding, and athleticism give Golden State a much-needed interior presence.
**Kevon Looney (C)** – A steady veteran who provides rebounding and playoff experience, though his role may diminish if Jackson-Davis shines.
**Dario Šarić (PF/C)** – Re-signed for his shooting and versatility off the bench.
—
### **Wild Cards: Trade Possibilities & Two-Way Players**
The Warriors are still rumored to be exploring trades for a star (e.g., Lauri Markkanen), which could shake up the roster. Additionally, two-way players like Pat Spencer and Ethan Thompson could earn minutes with strong preseason performances.
—
### **Outlook: Playoff Team, But Title Contenders?**
This roster has a strong mix of Curry’s greatness, young talent (Kuminga, Podziemski, Jackson-Davis), and veteran role players. However, whether they can truly compete for a championship depends on:
– **Kuminga’s leap** – Can he become a reliable second option?
– **Wiggins’ bounce-back** – If he returns to 2022 form, the Warriors’ ceiling rises.
– **Defensive consistency** – Green and Jackson-Davis must anchor the defense.
If all goes right, Golden State could surprise as a top-4 seed. But if the young core doesn’t take the next step, they may need a midseason trade to stay in contention.
**Final Projected Depth Chart:**
– **Starters:** Curry, Podziemski, Wiggins, Green, Jackson-Davis
– **Bench:** Melton, Hield, Moody, Kuminga, Šarić, Looney
– **Two-Way:** Wigginton, Spencer, Thompson
The Warriors’ 2025-26 season will hinge on their ability to balance youth and experience—will it be enough for one more title run?
