The Golden State Warriors are at the pinnacle of the basketball world but their next challenge is to keep their core intact.
The Warriors have Steph Curry, one of the best value players in the league. His cap-friendly contract allowed their front office to build a competent team around him, along with players on rookie contracts like Draymond Green and Harrison Barnes.
Harrison Barnes is the next guy up for an extension, and while Barnes and the team have both expressed willingness to continue their partnership, the figures have to add up.
As noted by Basketball Insiders, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist recently signed an extension amounting to $ 52 million over 4 years. This may be an indicator of Barnes' market value.
"The Warriors would like to get a deal done with Barnes, but given the money they have shelled out to Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, a Barnes extension has to be at the right price. Like Waiters, it may be smarter for Barnes to wait and see what the market sets his price at."
Blue Man Hoop, a Warriors blog, aired that the Warriors should work to sign an extension now before the salary cap rises next year.
"If Barnes were to sign a max contract next offseason, when the new salary cap kicks in, his starting salary would be $22.25 million," they stated. "As such, there is great incentive for the Warriors to seek out an extension with Barnes before the new cap is instated - even if Barnes isn't likely to earn a max contract."
However, negotiations may hit a snag, as an update from BMH reported that Barnes has cut ties with his agent Jeff Wechsler. This move could be seen as Barnes attempt to negotiate better.
Barnes has always had high potential but many observers believe he is underutilized by the Warriors. Even if he starts, there's no doubt that NBA Finals MVP Andre Iguodala is the first option at the "three."
There would be other teams that will covet Barnes and place him as a starter or a main offensive option. Considering the cap increase, there will be some huge offers and the Warriors might not be able to match considering their other contractual obligations.