The Golden State Warriors appear poised to enter the 2026-27 NBA season with one of the league’s most experienced rosters, led by Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, and newly acquired center Kristaps Porziņģis. While the team remains firmly in championship contention, its projected payroll places the franchise well above the NBA luxury tax threshold and close to the second apron.
Here’s a complete breakdown of the Warriors’ projected roster, starting lineup, salary situation, and upcoming extension decisions.
Golden State Warriors Projected Starting Five
Based on the current offseason roster projection, Golden State’s expected starters are:
- PG: Stephen Curry
- SG: Brandin Podziemski
- SF: Gui Santos
- PF: Draymond Green
- C: Kristaps Porziņģis
The lineup combines elite veteran leadership with emerging young talent. Curry continues to serve as the franchise centerpiece, while Podziemski has developed into a full-time starter. Porziņģis adds size, floor spacing, and rim protection alongside Green in the frontcourt.
Warriors Bench and Reserve Players
Golden State’s projected bench includes a mix of veterans and developing contributors:
- Moses Moody
- De’Anthony Melton
- Will Richard
- Jimmy Butler (injured)
- Yaxel Lendeborg
- Charles Bassey
- Al Horford
Two-Way Contracts
The Warriors also project to carry two players on two-way deals:
- Malevy Leons
- LJ Cryer
Warriors Salary Cap Situation
Golden State projects to carry approximately $213.4 million in salary entering the season, including performance bonuses.
Current financial projections include:
- Projected Team Salary: $213.4 million
- Luxury Tax Threshold: $200 million
- First Apron: $209 million
- Second Apron: $222 million
The Warriors sit above both the luxury tax line and first apron while remaining below the second apron. That leaves the organization with limited flexibility to make additional roster moves without triggering further financial restrictions.
Current Roster Breakdown
The projected roster consists of:
- Guaranteed Contracts: 11
- Non/Partially Guaranteed: 1
- Two-Way Contracts: 2
The Warriors may still add depth before training camp depending on free agency and potential trades.
Warriors Players Eligible for Contract Extensions
Several key players could become extension eligible during the offseason:
- Stephen Curry (eligible beginning August 29)
- Moses Moody (eligible beginning October 1)
- Brandin Podziemski
Extension negotiations for Curry will naturally attract the most attention as the future Hall of Famer continues to lead Golden State’s championship aspirations.
Remaining Roster Flexibility
Despite operating above the luxury tax, the Warriors still possess limited mechanisms to improve the roster.
Available exceptions include:
- Veteran minimum contracts
- Trade exception valued at approximately $2.3 million
Given their salary position, Golden State will likely rely on veteran signings and internal player development rather than major free-agent additions.
What This Means for the Warriors
The Warriors are clearly prioritizing another championship run around Stephen Curry. The additions of Kristaps Porziņģis and veteran depth pieces provide the team with improved size and experience, while younger contributors such as Brandin Podziemski, Gui Santos, and Moses Moody will be expected to take on larger roles.
Although Golden State faces significant salary cap constraints, the organization has assembled a roster capable of competing in the Western Conference. How the front office manages upcoming contract extensions and any remaining offseason additions could ultimately determine whether the Warriors can make another deep NBA playoff run in the 2026-27 season.