The Golden State Warriors face a critical offseason challenge: adding size to complement their aging core of Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler. With Green now 35 and showing signs of wear after 13 grueling seasons, head coach Steve Kerr is reluctant to rely on him as the everyday starting center moving forward.

Why Size Matters for the Warriors

Green’s unique defensive prowess has helped the Warriors conquer the league, but the toll on his body is evident. Kerr acknowledges that while Green can handle short stretches at center, starting him every game isn’t sustainable.

The Warriors experimented with Trayce Jackson-Davis as the starting center early this season. Jackson-Davis, entering his third year, is a rim-running defensive presence but struggled with finishing plays. Rookie Quinten Post, a 7-footer known for his shooting, has shown promise with a deadly three-point shot at a 40.8% clip in limited minutes.

General Manager Mike Dunleavy emphasizes the importance of size and skill: “One way or another on offense, that player has got to be able to finish—whether at the rim or shooting threes. With Draymond and Jimmy creating plays, having someone who can finish or shoot is critical.”

The Warriors’ Ideal Big Man Profile

• Versatile finishing ability: Capable of scoring near the rim and hitting outside shots.

• Defensive presence: Rim protection and rebounding to complement Green’s defense.

• Fit with aging core: Players ideally in their prime or pre-prime to bridge the gap before the Warriors’ stars retire.

• Shooting skill: The ability to space the floor with reliable three-point shooting, following the trend of skilled big men in the NBA.

Balancing the Present and Future

Dunleavy is balancing short-term championship goals with long-term roster construction. The Warriors want players who can contribute now but also fit into a plan beyond Curry, Green, and Butler’s remaining years, all signed through 2026-27.

“We’re looking at both the now and the future,” Dunleavy said. “If we have to get veterans in their early to mid-30s who can help us win a title now, that’s fine. But ideally, we want players in their prime who will carry us forward.”

The Challenge Ahead

The Warriors pioneered small-ball lineups that changed basketball, but as more teams adopt skilled big men who can shoot, Golden State needs to adapt by adding size and shooting in the frontcourt and beyond. Finding big men who can shoot and defend will be key to maximizing the remaining championship window for Curry, Green, and Butler.