The Golden State Warriors are poised to shake up the NBA landscape this offseason, with whispers of a blockbuster move that could see them pair Stephen Curry with one of the league’s most decorated stars: nine-time All-Star and seven-time All-NBA selection Damian Lillard. Fresh off the Milwaukee Bucks’ surprising decision to waive and stretch Lillard’s massive $112.6 million contract, the Warriors have emerged as a serious contender to bring the superstar point guard to the Bay Area, potentially forming a dream backcourt alongside Curry.
A Hometown Hero Returns?
Lillard, a native of Oakland, grew up cheering for the Warriors at Oracle Arena, even sneaking into the media room for free sodas as a kid. Now, at 35 years old, the former Portland Trail Blazers icon could be on the verge of returning home. ESPN’s Marc J. Spears reported on NBA Today that the Warriors are among the many teams that have reached out to Lillard’s camp, sparking excitement among Bay Area fans. “This is a guy who grew up a Warriors fan,” Spears noted. “That’s very interesting.”
The Bucks’ decision to part ways with Lillard, reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania on July 1, 2025, was a shock to the league. By waiving Lillard and stretching his $113 million contract over the next five seasons, Milwaukee cleared the way to acquire Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers without sacrificing future draft assets. For Lillard, however, the move has opened an “incredible opportunity,” according to his agent, Aaron Goodwin. The point guard is now a free agent two years earlier than expected, giving him the freedom to choose his next destination.
The Warriors’ Big Swing
Pairing Lillard with Curry, who is entering his age-38 season, would create one of the most dynamic and accomplished backcourts in NBA history. While Lillard’s fit alongside Curry raises questions—particularly compared to the seamless partnership Curry once shared with Klay Thompson—his scoring prowess and clutch shot-making could elevate the Warriors to new heights. Lillard’s resume speaks for itself: a nine-time All-Star with a career average of 25.1 points per game and a knack for delivering in high-pressure moments.
However, the pursuit of Lillard comes with risks. The veteran guard suffered a torn Achilles in Game 5 of the Bucks’ playoff series against the Pacers last season, following a bout with deep vein thrombosis that sidelined him for the final 14 games of the regular season. He’s expected to miss a significant portion of the 2025-26 campaign, with some speculation suggesting a return around the All-Star break. Any team signing Lillard will likely offer a two-year deal, providing flexibility for both sides to evaluate the partnership.
A Strategic Fit for Golden State
The Warriors’ interest in Lillard aligns with their aggressive approach to this pivotal offseason. Reports suggest they’re also eyeing Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, a player Lillard once hoped to team up with in South Beach before his trade to Milwaukee. Landing both Lillard and Butler could give Golden State a significant edge in negotiations, as the two stars share a mutual respect and a desire to compete for championships.
Financially, the Warriors are well-positioned to make a move. With the $14.1 million non-taxpayer midlevel exception at their disposal, they can offer Lillard a competitive deal without jeopardling the luxury tax, especially as they navigate the ongoing contract uncertainty surrounding restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. According to Spears, Lillard’s focus isn’t on money—he’s still being paid handsomely by the Bucks—but on finding the right fit. “Money really doesn’t matter right now,” Spears said. “He gets to choose where he wants to go.”
Lillard’s decision to rehab his injury in Portland, where he can stay close to his family, underscores his priorities. “Family is extremely important to him,” Spears added. A return to the Bay Area could offer the perfect blend of personal and professional fulfillment for the hometown hero.
Risks and Rewards
The Warriors’ pursuit of Lillard is not without its challenges. His injury history and age raise concerns about his ability to return to his All-NBA form. There’s also the possibility that Lillard could leave after the 2025-26 season, leaving Golden State with only a half-year of his services. Still, the potential reward of pairing two of the game’s greatest shooters in Curry and Lillard is tantalizing. Their combined firepower could overwhelm defenses and give the Warriors a legitimate shot at another title.
As Spears noted, interest in Lillard is sky-high, with “double-digit” teams vying for his signature. Yet, the Warriors’ combination of championship pedigree, Curry’s gravitational pull, and the allure of playing in front of his hometown crowd could give them the upper hand.
A New Chapter for the Warriors?
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Golden State to see if they can pull off this seismic move. Landing Lillard would send shockwaves through the NBA, signaling the Warriors’ intent to maximize Curry’s prime and cement their status as contenders. For now, fans in the Bay Area can dream of a Curry-Lillard backcourt lighting up Chase Center, ready to write the next chapter in the Warriors’ storied legacy.