“Can’t Take Less Money Than Draymond”: Klay Thompson’s Stance Against Joe Lacob Backed by Bay Area Veteran Amid Magic Rumors

Golden State Warriors star Klay Thompson’s future with the franchise is at an uncertain stage. With his 4-year deal set to expire, he is yet to receive an offer that he can deem acceptable. With just a week remaining before the player may opt for free agency, the Warriors recently placed a new contract in front of him. But Thompson still didn’t deem it worthy enough, compelling two renowned podcasters to share their thoughts on the situation.

Matt Steinmetz & Daryle ‘The Guru’ Johnson hosted another segment for 95.7 The Game. The duo highlighted Klay Thompson’s plight after ESPN’s Tim McMahon revealed that the Warriors offered the player a 2-year deal. It does not align with Thompson’s desires as he reportedly wants to sign a 3-year contract.

This compelled Steinmetz to compare what the shooting guard is being offered now, and the 4-year, $100 million deal that Draymond Green signed during the previous off-season.

“After everything this team’s been through for 12 years, Steph, Klay, Draymond…. 12 years, can you really not pay Klay Thompson as much as you’re paying Draymond Green?” Steinmetz asked. “If I’m Klay Thompson, I can’t take less money than Draymond Green”.

Steinmetz did not appreciate that Klay Thompson was undervalued, even though he, Draymond Green, and Stephen Curry have been associated with the Warriors for over a decade. Through the combined effort of the trio, the franchise recorded one of its best periods in the NBA by securing four championship titles, five division titles, and six conference titles.

While Green has been instrumental on the defensive front, Curry and Thompson carry the scoring bulk for the team, with the latter often reducing the load from the lead scorer’s shoulder.

Steinmetz seemed convinced that Klay Thompson was justified in taking a stand against majority owner Joe Lacob and the rest of the Warriors management. If he does not receive the respect he requires, he is well within his rights to move elsewhere.

Will Klay Thompson head to Orlando Magic?

In a scenario where Klay Thompson leaves the Warriors, one franchise that might be his next destination is the Orlando Magic. Their name started popping up once it became official that Thompson rejected the Warriors’ $48 million extension offer.

In an article published in February, sports reporter Marc Stein highlighted that the Magic are being “increasingly mentioned as a potential suitor” if the unexpected happens with the Warriors.

Renowned journalist Shams Charania also highlighted it, as he stated “You plug in a guy like Klay Thompson, plug in another veteran player …. you plug in some more shooting and scoring, and I think that’s what can take this Orlando team to another level.”

The Orlando Magic certainly has the capital to afford the four-time NBA champion, with over $42 million reportedly left from their next year’s salary cap of $141 million.

However, according to Yahoo Sports reporter Jake Fischer, the Orlando Magic also wants to offer Thomspon only a two-year contract. Therefore, unless Dan DeVos and the rest of the management are willing to negotiate, Klay Thompson may have to put both the Warriors and the Magic aside.

Before leaving, check out some insights Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, shared about WNBA star rookies Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark.