Draymond Green predicts Steve Kerr won’t return as Warriors coach next season
Apr 17, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) reacts alongside head coach Steve Kerr against the Phoenix Suns during the second half in the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Draymond Green has cast doubt on Steve Kerr’s future with the Golden State Warriors, predicting that the longtime coach may not return for the 2025-2026 season. Speaking on « The Draymond Green Show, » Green shared his honest assessment just days after Kerr himself acknowledged this might be his final campaign with the franchise.
« I hope he’s our coach next season, » Green said on his podcast. « You want my opinion? I think not. Just because it feels like that. It felt like that was it. »
An emotional farewell moment in Phoenix
The speculation intensified following the Warriors’ playoff elimination late Friday night in Phoenix. In a poignant moment captured by microphones, Kerr brought Green and Stephen Curry together on the sideline to conclude their 12th season as a trio. « I don’t know what’s going to happen next, but I love you guys to death. Thank you, » Kerr told his two veteran stars.
Kerr has indicated he plans to take the next week or two to evaluate his future with the organization. According to reports, the coach has been conflicted about his direction in recent weeks, estimating the likelihood of his return at around 50-50.
« I still love coaching, but I get it, » Kerr said late Friday night in Phoenix. « These jobs all have an expiration date. There is a run that happens, and when the run ends, sometimes it’s time for new blood and new ideas. »
Management seeks commitment, not sentiment
Team sources suggest that controlling owner Joe Lacob wants to hear Kerr express genuine hunger to continue handling the daily demands of coaching, rather than accepting a return based purely on loyalty to Green and Curry. If Kerr decides to stay, management reportedly prefers he sign a multiyear deal instead of orchestrating a farewell tour driven by emotion and nostalgia.
The uncertainty extends beyond the coaching position. While Curry is entering the final year of his contract with mutual interest in an extension, Green’s future remains less certain. The veteran forward holds a one-year, $27.6 million player option and acknowledged his own uncertain status.
« I’ve never been so uncertain since earlier in my career in what happens next, » Green said on his podcast. « But I’m truly at a loss now because you don’t know what direction will be next. … I also hope I’m on this team next season. We also don’t know that. Man, if it was, what a run. »
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