Klay Thompson, a fixture with the Golden State Warriors throughout his NBA career, earned five NBA All-Star selections and clinched four championships with the team. However, an ACL tear and Achilles injury limited his contributions between 2019 and 2022. His return in early 2022 marked a return to his previous excellent form, ultimately aiding his team in securing another NBA championship that year.
Despite that, things are not looking great for Klay. Recent rumors suggest there is a looming threat around the 4-time NBA champion‘s contract extension. Amid the uncertainty, Thompson shared a cryptic message on his socials.
Klay Thompson Shares Cryptic Post
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Klay Thompson seems more focused than ever this season, driven by a contract extension dispute with the team. As per Adrian Wojnarowski, there is a difference of opinion between the 33-year-old athlete and the team regarding the specifics of a potential contract extension.
“I’m told that there has been absolutely no progress on a Klay Thompson extension in Golden State. That they are both still apart on years?and?money,” said Wojnarowski. He further added, “And there’s a very real possibility that Klay Thompson goes into free agency next summer without a deal.” In response to reports, he conveyed a resolute message on Instagram. With Tu Pac Shakur’s “Me vs the World” in the background, Klay captioned the story, “The type a energy I’m on all season.”
Among the Warriors’ core players, Klay Thompson is the only one without a long-term contract. Draymond Green secured a four-year, $100 million deal this summer, and Stephen Curry is under contract until 2025/26. Thompson posted season averages of 21.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists. During the playoffs, in their second-round loss to the Lakers, his averages dipped to 16.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, raising concerns about a potentially burdensome long-term contract.
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As mentioned earlier, Thompson consistently approaches the game with this mindset, which may not be directly tied to the recent contract report. However, this season holds a significant incentive for the Warriors star, as it’s likely his last chance to secure a long-term NBA contract.
What’s Holding up the contract?
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Klay Thompson is on an expiring $43.2 million contract, and Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated suggests he might receive a $35 million per season extension. Netting him $140 Million. Although there’s a shared desire between Thompson and the Warriors to strike a deal, it’s probable that an extension won’t happen before the season starts. This adds some uncertainty, but it could benefit both Thompson and the team as they can assess the best course of action based on this season’s performance.
Golden State has managed the uncommon achievement of maintaining its core team for an extended period. They certainly aim for Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green to conclude their careers with the Warriors. Will we see Klay Thompson doomed to free agency?
Let us know in the comments below.
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