Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob expressed his appreciation for Stephen Curry taking a $20 million discount on his recent contract extension, emphasizing that the organization would have paid its franchise cornerstone the full amount if he had demanded it.
As the Warriors continue their preparations for the 2026-27 NBA season following a 1-2 start to the preseason, Lacob recently discussed Curry's decision to accept less money during negotiations with Golden State.
According to Ron Kroichick of the San Francisco Chronicle, Lacob made it clear that keeping Curry with the franchise remained the organization's top priority regardless of the financial implications.
“We were going to take care of him and make sure he stays, no matter what,” Lacob said. “Fortunately, we were able to convince him if he wanted to help out … he saw the benefit of that. And we’re very appreciative, obviously. If he would take even less, we’d be happier (smiling).”
Joe Lacob on Steph Curry taking a $20M discount on his extension:
“We were going to take care of him and make sure he stays, no matter what. Fortunately, we were able to convince him if he wanted to help out … he saw the benefit of that. And we’re very appreciative, obviously.… pic.twitter.com/2D29072q3Y
— NBABase (@TheNBABase) October 9, 2026
Lacob also acknowledged that Curry had no obligation to accept a discount, considering everything he has accomplished throughout his career with the Warriors.
“But we appreciate what he’s done. Most players don’t ever take less, and he didn’t have to — if he had demanded to take all of it, we’d have paid it. He deserves it. … The most important thing is he stays a Warrior for life, because he’s so important to this franchise.”
Stephen Curry's contract extension provides Warriors with financial flexibility
Curry, 38, ended speculation surrounding his long-term future with Golden State when he signed a two-year, $116 million contract extension at the end of September.
His willingness to accept approximately $20 million less than he could have received gives the Warriors additional financial flexibility as they attempt to build a competitive roster around their longtime superstar.
Although the discount does not automatically create additional salary cap space, it could help Golden State manage its payroll and navigate the NBA's restrictive luxury tax and apron rules in the coming seasons.
Article Continues BelowCurry's decision also reinforces his commitment to the only NBA franchise he has played for since entering the league as the No. 7 overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft.
The two-time NBA MVP has helped transform Golden State into one of the league's most successful organizations, leading the Warriors to four NBA championships in 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2022.
With Curry remaining the centerpiece of the franchise, Golden State is focused on returning to postseason contention after finishing 37-45 during the 2025-26 campaign and suffering another Play-In Tournament exit.
The Warriors are coming off a 123-118 preseason loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night. Golden State will look to bounce back Saturday when it faces the Sacramento Kings at 5:30 p.m. PT.
For Lacob, however, the most significant offseason development remains securing Curry's future while receiving an unexpected financial concession from the franchise's most accomplished player.