Klay Thompson’s $20 Million Opportunity in Question, as Warriors’ May Take Reassuring Future Decision

The Golden State Warriors have been the most successful organization in the NBA over the last decade. They have won four NBA championships in the last decade, becoming synonymous with winning and success. While Stephen Curry has been the poster child of this era of Warriors’ dominance, Klay Thompson has served as his indispensable teammate. Steph and Klay, more commonly referred to as the “Splash Bros” have reshaped the modern NBA landscape.

However, age has caught up with Klay Thompson. Now more than ever, he is enduring a challenging 2023-24 season. His subpar performances this season have further complicated matters around his contract extension. His current deal with the Warriors runs out at the end of the current season. Some reports suggested that Klay is looking for another max contract. However, with his stock visibly in decline, the Warriors are reluctant to meet Klay’s salary expectations.

This contract stand-off has led to murmurs that Klay Thompson might finally leave the Bay Area. However, NBA insiders feel that Klay isn’t going anywhere. In a recent article by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, an unnamed NBA executive revealed that the Dubs can’t afford to lose Klay. He said, “The Warriors can’t let him walk. He’s a four-time champion, and they can’t really replace him… Maybe they tie his deal to Steph’s. Klay’s value is in the $20-25 million range. I think other teams would sign him.”

The anonymous NBA executive also proposed that if the Warriors opted not to extend Klay’s contract, the Orlando Magic could seize the chance to acquire him. He said, “If you’re the Magic, don’t you want a grown-up? They need a legitimate shooting guard… Orlando likes size, which Klay has, and he’d give them shooting.” It almost seems impossible to imagine Klay Thompson playing for another team. But could winning the 2024 NBA title ensure that Klay stays a Warrior for life?

Can Klay Thompson lead the Dubs to another NBA title?

It is safe to suggest that Klay has had a disappointing 2023-24 season. In fact, he hasn’t experienced a statistically challenging season since his sophomore year, during which he averaged 16.6 points per game. Currently, he maintains an average of 17 points per game. Furthermore, Klay has shot 37.9% from beyond the arc, marking the least efficient performance of his 11-season NBA career.

However, with Stephen Curry suffering an ankle injury against the Bulls, Klay would have to lead the Warriors until Steph returns. Despite enduring a challenging season, Klay remains the Warriors second highest scorer after Curry. He has the opportunity to prove his haters wrong by finishing the season strongly with Steph out injured. Improved performances in the remaining regular season games and postseason could also lead to more favorable terms in his contract extension. Will Klay remain with the Warriors after this season? Let us know in the comments below!

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