Draymond Green: Warriors’ Steve Kerr Departure Unimaginable
Draymond Green told listeners on his podcast Monday he does not expect Steve Kerr to remain Golden State’s coach. He added he hopes Kerr returns, but said the feeling is that the era may be over. Green also voiced uncertainty about his own future with the team.
End of season and bench moment
The Warriors’ season ended with a 111-96 loss at Phoenix in the play-in tournament. Golden State had beaten the Los Angeles Clippers in the earlier play-in game.
After the loss, Kerr brought Stephen Curry and Green together near the bench. He told them he didn’t know what the future held and expressed his gratitude to the players. The NBA later posted that exchange on social media, which Kerr had not expected.
Contract, tenure and team struggles
Kerr recently completed a two-year contract worth $35 million. He is 60 years old and has coached the Warriors for 12 seasons.
Under Kerr, the franchise won four championships. This season was disrupted by season-ending injuries to Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody, and a long absence by Stephen Curry. Golden State finished 10th in the Western Conference.
Coaching record
Kerr owns a 604-353 regular-season record as Warriors coach. His playoff mark stands at 104-48, a .684 winning percentage. That playoff rate ranks second among coaches with at least 100 postseason games, trailing Phil Jackson’s .688.
Next steps for the franchise
Kerr said he will meet owner Joe Lacob and general manager Mike Dunleavy within a week or two. He said the group will discuss the plan for the offseason and arrive at a collaborative decision. Kerr added he still loves coaching but acknowledged that coaching runs can end.
He described his tenure as an amazing opportunity to coach in the Bay Area and to work with Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and the core group.
Player reactions and exit interviews
Most Warriors players met with Kerr on Monday for exit interviews at Chase Center. Forward Gui Santos said he wants the core to stay together and praised Kerr, Curry and Green for their contributions.
Guard Pat Spencer said he owes Kerr a great deal and described Kerr as a mentor during his time with the team.
The uncertainty surrounding Kerr has resonated across the roster. For many observers, the moment has been summed up with the phrase Draymond Green: Warriors’ Steve Kerr Departure Unimaginable.
Filmogaz.com will follow developments as ownership, the front office and coaching staff discuss next steps this offseason.
