Warriors could make important decision with 11th draft pick

Armed with the 11th pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, the Golden State Warriors have a decision to make. They can either package the pick in search of a ready-made star, or they can look to add to the young core by using their selection on a highly-ranked talent. At first glance, it's easy to talk yourself into the idea that Golden State will flip the pick, as they look to build a contending roster around Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.

However, according to Marc Spears, who spoke on a recent episode of ESPN's "NBA Today," it appears the Warriors are leaning toward keeping their pick in the upcoming draft.

“The Warriors have that 11th pick, and people wonder like ‘Hey, can they get in the Giannis mix?’ From what I’m being told today, from several people, the Warriors (would) like to keep that pick,” Spears said.

While that decision would make it more difficult to land a star, it would probably be the right call for the Warriors. Curry, Green and Jimmy Butler are nearing the end of their careers. Having young players ready to step into bigger roles when the time comes is how the franchise can avoid a turbulent transition.

In the latest mock draft from The Athletic's Sam Vecenie, the Warriors have been projected to take Michigan standout Aday Mara. Adding the 7-foot-3 big man would provide Golden State with a potential big man of the future, capable of anchoring the paint and offering secondary or tertiary playmaking within the offense.

Of course, the front office could go in a different direction on draft night. The Warriors will have plenty of options to add to their team during the draft. They can also explore other routes to acquire another star, should they be inclined. Nevertheless, we won't truly know what the front office plans to do until draft night, even if keeping the pick does appear to make the most sense.