Jason Burgos
A new report suggests the current divide between the Golden State Warriors and coach Steve Kerr when it comes to a new contract is not about getting more money, and is instead on how he manages franchise legends, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.
It has been nearly two weeks since the Warriors’ season came to a close in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Yet, it is still unclear who will be leading from the bench in 2026-27 and beyond. Legendary coach Steve Kerr is no longer under contract, and there have been rumblings over the last couple of years that the 60-year-old is ready for a break.
However, according to NBC Sports Warriors insider Monte Poole, sources inside the organization indicate that during exit meetings last week, Kerr gave the impression he wants to return next season. “From what I understand, he in those meetings didn’t sound like someone who didn’t plan on coaching next season,” a source told Poole.
Furthermore, the report suggests that getting a pay bump is not slowing negotiations on a new contract. So what is holding things up after ESPN reported on Wednesday that Kerr and the front office are at an impasse following a meeting earlier this week?
Is Steve Kerr giving special treatment to Steph Curry and Draymond Green?
In Poole’s report, he revealed that one sticking point is that “the front office would like to see a readiness to embrace greater flexibility with coaching schemes, particularly as they relate to the team’s younger players.” The organization has not hidden a desire to build for the future and turn Brandin Podziemski into a key part of the roster.
Yet, that isn’t the most interesting part when it comes to the current impasse. It seems that the front office also wants more accountability in the locker room, specifically when it comes to how he handles top stars, Curry and Green.
It is understandable why Kerr has allowed far more leeway when it comes to the two team greats. They have played a massive role in turning the Warriors into a top NBA brand and leading them to four championships over the last decade.
However, with both far removed from their prime, it looks like management is tired of Kerr ignoring some of the negatives in their playing style and personalities.
