Stephen Curry’s future with the Golden State Warriors is officially in his hands. The extension window opened Saturday, giving the four-time NBA champion the option to sign a contract extension worth up to two years and $136.7 million.
The Warriors have made it clear they are prepared to give their franchise star whatever he wants. The bigger question is how Curry chooses to use that leverage—and what his decision means for Golden State’s next championship run.
Stephen Curry’s $136.7 million contract decision
“What the terms of a new extension look like for Curry will be completely up to him, as the Warriors are prepared to offer their star whatever he wants,” NBA insider Brett Siegel wrote. “If Steph wants the full $136.7 million through the 2028-29 season, he will get that. If he wants to take a discount to help the team, GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. will have no problem with said deal.”
The timing of Curry’s decision could be as important as the value of the contract. ESPN’s Bobby Marks explained the current restrictions:
“From now until June 30, Curry is eligible to sign up to a two-year/$136.7M extension. Because of the Over 38 rule, 2 years is the maximum allowed in an extension. He can sign for up to 3 seasons if he waits until FA.”
If Curry signs immediately, the Warriors would commit significant salary to the veteran guard and limit their financial flexibility. If he waits, Golden State could enter next summer with considerably more room to reshape its roster.
Brian Windhorst has argued that delaying the extension could be Curry’s smartest option.
“If he chooses to sign right now, he could get two years at $140 million,” Windhorst said.
“Obviously if that’s what he says he wants, you give it to him. But if he doesn’t sign his contract extension right now the Warriors could have over $100 million in salary cap space next summer.”
Warriors’ roster plans depend on Curry
That is the central choice facing Curry: sign now and secure a major payday, or wait and give the Warriors greater flexibility to build a stronger contender around him before the end of his career.
Golden State’s current roster is not yet at a championship level, while Curry has made clear that he still wants to compete for NBA titles. The Warriors want him to remain with the franchise for life, and the belief is that Curry wants the same.
Between accepting a maximum extension and taking a deliberate pause, Curry’s decision could shape the next era of the Warriors. The franchise, its fans and the rest of the NBA will be watching closely when he puts pen to paper.
