Draymond Green hopes Steve Kerr returns as Warriors coach but admits Play-In loss 'felt like that was it'

Getty Images

Late in the Golden State Warriors' season-ending 111-96 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Friday in the Play-In Tournament, Steve Kerr brought his two long-time stars, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, together for a quick huddle to soak in what could be their final game together.

Kerr's contract is up, while Green has just a one-year player option remaining on his deal. The latter has made his desire to be back known, though the question is whether he'll simply pick up his player option or decline it to work out a long-term extension (for less annual salary). Kerr's plans for 2026-27, on the other hand, are much less clear.

After Friday's loss, Kerr said he'd "take a little time" before meeting with the Warriors' brass to determine whether he'll be back or not, leading to plenty of speculation about Golden State's future. On Monday, Green addressed Kerr's impending decision on his podcast and noted that, as much as he wants Kerr back on the bench, that moment the trio shared on the court on Friday had the feeling of finality.

"I've never been so uncertain since early in my career on what happens next. But I'm truly at a loss now because you just don't know what direction will be what. Steph, myself, Steve shared a moment in what could be our last time playing with Steve as our coach," Green said. "I'm happy we got to share that moment and he didn't miss the moment. It was a big deal. I hope he's our coach next year. You want my opinion? I think not. Just because it just feels like that. It felt like that was it. I also hope I'm on this team next year; we also don't know that. And man, if it was, what a run it's been. So lucky to have had for 12 years Steve as my coach. We shall see, I don't know. Just gotta stay ready for whatever it is and roll with the punches."