Dennis Schröder’s son, Dennis Jr., expressed his approval of his father’s recent trade to the Golden State Warriors, declaring, “Now it’s a good team.” This youthful perspective provided a light-hearted moment amidst the whirlwind of NBA trades that have marked Schröder’s career.
The young boy’s excitement was palpable when he learned they would be joining the Warriors, especially since he proudly owns a No. 30 Stephen Curry jersey.
“He was like, ‘Oh, we’re lucky, now it’s a good team at least,'” Schröder recalled, chuckling at his son’s innocent enthusiasm. “That was the first thing he said, and I couldn’t help but laugh, even though I was feeling down. Of course, he’s a huge Steph Curry fan. He watches every game and lives for basketball. Just yesterday, he asked me, ‘Was Steph Curry there?’ I responded, ‘You’re not going to ask how I’m doing?’”
Schröder is looking forward to witnessing Curry’s remarkable scoring ability firsthand, while he himself takes pride in being a strong defensive player. His experience playing alongside numerous NBA stars has prepared him for this new chapter, where he will join forces with Curry and Draymond Green, alleviating pressure from both superstars.
“I can’t wait for Thursday to get after it with these guys,” Schröder stated during his introduction at Chase Center after his first practice with the Warriors, marking his eighth NBA team. “I think it will be pretty special.”
Before heading to Memphis for his debut against the Grizzlies, Schröder will practice with the team again on Wednesday. He has chosen jersey No. 71, a nod to his previous number 17, which holds significance as it was his late father Axel’s favorite.
“I’ve got to stick with it; I’ll just reverse them,” he remarked, having been acquired from Brooklyn in a recent trade.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr envisions starting Schröder alongside Curry, while also ensuring he will be utilized effectively during all non-Curry minutes.
At 31, Schröder has demonstrated his capability by averaging 18 points against the Warriors in past matchups. “Not a surprise, I’ve had enough of him,” Kerr said, expressing excitement about having a two-way player who can help the team maintain organization during crucial moments.
“I like feisty,” Kerr added, highlighting his hope that Schröder will ease some of the burdens on Curry. “Dennis is a gamer and a competitor; I appreciate players like that.”
General manager Mike Dunleavy is optimistic that this partnership will extend beyond the current season.
Currently, the Warriors are banking on Schröder to provide a scoring lift and serve as a complementary guard to Curry. He has been averaging 18.4 points and 6.6 assists this season.
“It’s no secret we need to improve offensively, and sometimes making adjustments in strategy is the right way to approach that,” Dunleavy stated. “We’ll see how this unfolds. To maximize his strengths, we might need to shift our approach.”
The Warriors are determined to secure another championship while Curry and Green are still in their prime. Curry will turn 37 in March and is in his 16th season, while Green will celebrate his 35th birthday in the same month.
Schröder is particularly excited about the prospect of playing defense alongside Green.
“I’m really looking forward to teaming up with another Hall of Famer who was always a challenge when I faced him,” Schröder noted, recalling Green’s competitive spirit.
Green emphasized the need for Golden State to adapt to Schröder’s playing style, ensuring he finds his role within the new lineup.
“I don’t think he was necessarily brought here to fit our style,” Green explained. “We need someone who can bring what he does to the table. I’m looking forward to us adjusting to him.”
The Warriors traded injured guard De’Anthony Melton and guard Reece Beekman to the Nets, with Melton sidelined for the rest of the season due to ACL surgery.
Golden State also received a second-round draft pick for next year, while Brooklyn acquired three second-rounders in 2026, 2028, and Golden State’s pick in 2029.
Dunleavy keeps Curry and Green informed about potential trades when appropriate.
“To be clear, those guys are not knocking on my door asking for trades,” Dunleavy clarified. “But do I keep them in the loop? Yes. Were they supportive of this move? Absolutely.”
