After failing to make the 2026 NBA Playoffs, the Golden State Warriors are at a crossroads. The basketball landscape has changed around them, and they’ve failed to keep up.
The current roster is a far cry from the dynasty that ruled the NBA in the 2010s. Even comparing it to their last championship in 2022, the Warriors have glaring issues across the board.
Aging stars like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green are reaching the end of their careers. Draft picks made in the 2020s never stepped up to carry the franchise into the next generation.
Rumors of Steve Kerr’s exit from the team fueled more discussion that the greatest era of Warriors basketball was coming to an end. Kerr signed a two-year extension with the team on May 9 in what seems to be his final tenure as head coach.
If the franchise wants one last gasp at championship aspirations, it’ll have to start with the 2026 NBA Draft. The Warriors hold two selections this year, including their first lottery pick since 2021.
Warriors Draft Picks:
- Round 1 — No. 11
- Round 2 — No. 54
Warriors Draft Needs:
The biggest need on the roster is frontcourt help. Bringing in Kristaps Porzingis mid-season was a temporary solution to a long-standing issue.
Porzingis is an unrestricted free agent this year, leaving his future with the team uncertain. In terms of depth, 39-year-old Al Horford faces a player option for what could be his final year in the league.
Even if both return to the team next season, youth in the frontcourt will be a necessity moving forward. Alongside their bigs, the Warriors could benefit from increased athleticism throughout the court.
Both Moses Moody and Jimmy Butler suffered injuries in the latter half of the 2025-26 season. If neither can start the year, a young player who can come in and contribute immediately will be vital.
Warrior Draft Targets:
Aday Mara — C — Michigan
One way to immediately fill the lack of frontcourt youth is to plug in the 7-foot-3 Aday Mara. Michigan’s National Championship run was fueled by the constant presence of Mara, who averaged 12.1 points and 2.6 blocks last season.
Mara’s ability to control the paint both offensively and defensively could boost him into the lottery. His offensive capabilities drop off when he’s not in the post, but his pure size should be enough to contribute at the NBA level.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Mara’s game is his passing ability. Kerr’s experience in half-court movement would be perfect for Mara to find shooters around the floor.
Don’t expect a franchise-altering prospect in Mara. But he could be just what the Warriors need to get back on track.
Yaxel Lendeborg — F — Michigan
Michigan might see two players selected in this year’s lottery, with Yaxel Lendeborg providing what may be the highest floor out of any prospect.
His age (24) immediately jumps out, prompting questions about his future development. For a team like the Warriors, however, his experience could be the perfect fit.
Averaging 15.1 points per game with good three-point efficiency and athleticism, Lendeborg would fill the void of Moody and Butler while they’re recovering from injury.
Golden State isn’t looking for future superstar potential either. If they like Lendeborg, the expectation would be that he comes in and contributes immediately, in hopes of getting the Warriors back to the playoffs.
Dillon Mitchell — F — St. John’s
Sticking with the theme of athleticism, Mitchell could be a late second-round draft pick the Warriors target with the 54th pick.
Mitchell provides defensive and finishing upside, but lacks a reliable jump shot. Once again, given the injuries to Moody and Butler, Mitchell gaining significant NBA minutes early in his career should be beneficial for his long-term trajectory.
The No. 54 pick shouldn’t be made with the expectation of starting in Year 1. Instead, the Warriors can think more about the future of the franchise and select a player they believe will stick around in the Bay Area.
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