Monta Ellis, Stephen Curry
Fans still debate, speculate and hypothesize about which one should go and which one should stay. But in his season-ending chat with the media Friday, Warriors president Larry Riley effectively ended the debate regarding Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry.
“They’re our guards,” Riley said. “Anybody is tradable in this league. But those two guys are our guards, and we’re making plans to move forward with them.”
Riley said unless the Warriors get a knock-your-socks-off offer, priorities for improvement are size, depth and defense. The challenge will be adding those pieces without cashing in their biggest chips.
HoopsWorld
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Don Nelson
Don Nelson will be back on the Golden State bench next season.
Nelson reiterated before Tuesday night’s final home game against the Jazz he would return next season to fulfill the final year of his contract for the Warriors, and general manager Larry Riley said that would be the case barring any unforeseen circumstances.
Last week in Minnesota, Nelson earned his 1,333rd victory to move him past Lenny Wilkens for the top spot on the NBA’s wins list.
Inside Hoops
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Corey Maggette
Golden State Warriors general manager Larry Riley said he is weary of all the trade rumors hanging over his team and claims he is not shopping any player – despite rumblings throughout the NBA indicating otherwise.
One NBA executive said the Warriors are “trying to unload” forward Corey Maggette (no surprise, given his mammoth contract) and would trade young forward Anthony Randolph for “the right veteran.”
FanNation
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Don Nelson
Warriors coach Don Nelson has pneumonia and will not be with the team for today’s game against the Dallas Mavericks and Wednesday’s game at San Antonio.
He might miss Saturday’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers, as well.
“He’s sick as a dog,” general manager Larry Riley said.
A team source said Nelson was tested for swine flu, and the Warriors are waiting for results. Assistant coach Keith Smart will take over as head coach until Nelson returns.
FanNation
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Monta Ellis
Monta Ellis now replaces Stephen Jackson as the most irritated Warrior, and according to league sources, Ellis’ agent, Jeff Fried, will meet with Golden State management Thursday to discuss his future with the club.
Fried could not be reached for comment, and it is not clear whether he will ask the Warriors to trade his client.
But sources said Ellis has been telling teammates on a regular basis that he wants out of Golden State, and he believes general manager Larry Riley has spoken to several teams about potential trades involving him.
HoopsWorld
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