The Golden State Warriors
As shooting guard Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors heads into free agency this summer, there remains a potential path for him to stay part of the team’s core. Following head coach Steve Kerr’s recent two-year contract extension, which aligns with the remaining contract of star point guard Stephen Curry, there are indications that the Warriors might look to secure Thompson’s future as well.
According to ESPN’s Kendra Andrews, a source mentioned that “getting Thompson a deal that would also align him with those two would be a viable option.” Currently, Thompson is in the final year of his contract, earning $43.2 million this season. Discussions about a new deal began last summer, but the two sides could not reach an agreement. A source indicated that while talks occurred, they did not progress to the point of discussing specific dollar amounts, instead presenting a range to Thompson.
The Plan
At 34 years old, Thompson is eligible for a contract extension worth up to $223 million over four years, although that figure has been deemed “unrealistic.” Notably, money and his role in the lineup are not Thompson’s primary concerns, as he remains open to a shorter-term deal.
This season has been challenging for Thompson, marked by career lows in shooting percentages—42.1 percent from the field and 37.6 percent from three-point range. His average of 17.2 points per game is the lowest since his second year in the NBA. In response to his struggles, Kerr recently moved Thompson to the bench, hoping to help him regain his rhythm. Although adjusting to a backup role was difficult for Thompson, he made a significant impact in a game against the Utah Jazz, scoring 35 points.
At this stage of his Hall of Fame-caliber career, Thompson understands that nothing is guaranteed. Nevertheless, he remains determined to maintain an optimistic outlook regardless of the outcome. After the Warriors’ victory over the 76ers earlier this month, Thompson stated, “I’m going to be myself whether I’m wearing a Dubs uniform or another uniform. I’m going to be KT.”
The Battle
As the offseason approaches, Thompson’s future with the Warriors hangs in the balance, but both the team and the player seem open to finding a way to keep their partnership alive. Whether it be through a longer-term commitment or a shorter deal that aligns him with Curry and Kerr, Thompson’s legacy in Golden State is far from over.
