NBA Free Agency: Klay Thompson Could Lure $135 Million Contract as Celtics Deepens Warriors Dilemma, Claims ESPN Veteran

The Golden State Warriors season came to an official end on Tuesday. The Sacramento Kings gutted the Golden State with a 118-94 loss, eliminating them from playoff contention. However, this has left some wondering whether this was also the end of the Warriors’ dynasty.

The Warriors’ front office has extended the contracts of Draymond Green, Stephen Curry, and even head coach Steve Kerr. But they still haven’t reached an agreement with Klay Thompson, who is set to become a free agent this summer. According to ESPN’s Zach Lowe, Thompson is seeking a contract similar to what the Boston Celtics have offered Jrue Holiday. “Klay is going to draw interest around the league. He’s gonna want a fair salary. I can tell you for sure, both sides took note of that Jrue Holiday extension with the Celtics four years 135 million,” said Lowe.

On April 10, the Celtics and Holiday agreed to a four-year contract extension worth $135 million. Notably, this extension is worth less than Holiday’s current salary, meaning the Celtics will save money on luxury tax payments. However, it is still a substantial deal for a player of Holiday’s age, since the contract ends just a few days before his 38th birthday. The Celtics’ situation could pressure the Warriors to make a similar move and keep their core together.

But the Mike Dunleavy-led front office will likely take the team’s cap situation into account during potential negotiations.

Potential suitors for Klay Thompson sweepstakes

As per owner Joe Lacob, the Warriors hope to get below the punitive luxury tax line this offseason. But that would be impossible if Thompson returns on a potential 33 million-a-year contract. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, the organization already has $174 million in salary commitments for the 2024–25 season.

However, if the Warriors and Klay Thompson do not reach an agreement before July 1, when free agency starts, the 34-year-old will not have a shortage of suitors. According to NBA reporter Marc Stein, the Orlando Magic have been “increasingly mentioned as a potential suitor” for Klay Thompson. Besides Orlando, Dallas is another organization that could land the Warriors guard, per Sam Amick of The Athletic.

Moreover, Stephen Noh of The Sporting News believes that the Philadelphia 76ers could also make a move for Thompson to pair him with Joel Embiid. “Thompson is one of the best available options in a very weak class. He would make some sense as a target for them given their championship window. Could they offer a short-term overpay to pair up the shooter with Joel Embiid?” The 76ers are projected to open up a staggering $55.3 million in cap space and could offer Thompson the contract he is seeking.