Klay Thompson, who was an essential part of the Warriors’ historic dynasty with players Steph Curry and Draymond Green, is having a difficult season. The once-dominant squad is now ranked 12th in the Western Conference, with a 21-25 losing record. So, as the NBA trade deadline approaches, former NBA champion and current ESPN commentator Kendrick Perkins has provided an honest opinion on Golden State Warriors shooting guard Klay Thompson.
He took to social media to express his views and said, “I’m watching Hawks vs Warriors and don’t understand why Golden State is prolonging this relationship with Klay. Stop the bleeding! I still believe that Klay can be the Klay of old… he just need a change of scenery.” By saying this, Perkins emphasized the need for Klay Thompson to change his team, as he might be able to regain his old form by doing so. And as the trade deadline is nearing, he has the perfect opportunity to do that.
I’m watching Hawks vs Warriors and don’t understand why Golden State is prolonging this relationship with Klay. Stop the bleeding! I still believe that Klay can be the Klay of old… he just need a change of scenery
— Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) February 4, 2024
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However, according to sources, the Golden State Warriors have no interest in trading the 5x All-Star, as he has been an integral part of the Warriors’ success since being drafted in 2011. But with his contract expiring by the end of this season, the Warriors will have to decide if they want to extend his contract or use him as a trade asset and get a valuable player in his place.
Before this season, the Dubs offered him a contract extension of $48 million for two years, but Thompson rejected it. And now, with his game deteriorating, would the Warriors even offer him a contract extension?
Klay Thompson’s value decreases due to his performances
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As Klay Thompson approaches an important phase in his career, his current performance in a difficult season is not providing him with the leverage he may have hoped for to negotiate his contract. Currently, the 4x NBA champion is averaging only 17.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game due to which not only the Warriors but his value to other clubs has also taken a significant hit.
Read More: Stephen Curry’s 60-point Game Fails to Save Warriors in Another Horrible Klay Thompson Outing
Due to that, if he manages to get an extension from the Warriors, it will be less than the initial $48 million they were willing to offer him. So, even though Thompson may be a great asset to the Warriors because of his tremendous achievements and past association, the budgetary limits and doubts regarding his future performance make it a very difficult choice for the Dubs.
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What do you think? Will the Dubs offer Thompson a contract extension? Let us know in the comments below.
Watch this Story: “Gave Me Chills”: Klay Thompson Joins Stephen Curry and Other Warriors in Relishing Estranged Teammate’s Return