Warriors News: Joe Lacob Could Face Locker Room’s Wrath as Klay Thompson’s $135 Million Demand Threatens Ex-Champ’s Future

Days after the official commencement of the off-season, the Dubs already have a few tough decisions to make. The Golden State Warriors have already dealt with the Klay Thompson situation since their early exit in the previous season. While the team has to attend to multiple player options and free agency in the coming days, China Klay‘s $135 million demand could incite a locker room wrath. Notably, it could be the aftermath of the front office’s decision to let go of a 3x NBA Champ.

After dominating the league with six Finals appearances and 4 titles, the Dubs have struggled to even qualify for the postseason in the last two seasons. More than winning the title, the team has the challenge of staying relevant. And for that, several tough decisions have to be made. 28-year-old Kevon Looney could be first in the line to take the blow. The 3x champion has one more left in the contract. The team can either opt him for $8 million or let him go with a $3 million buyout.

While the $3 million won’t make much dent in the Dubs, parting ways with the trusted center does. According to Marcus Thompson, a reporter, this upcoming tough call from Joe Lacob will create unrest in the locker room.

On the other side, buying out Kevon Looney will reduce the team’s burden on the luxury tax. Even though there isn’t much relief, it may help the team meet Klay Thompson‘s demand. The 34-year-old entered the free agency in the off-season and he is yet to sign the extension with the team.

Earlier this year, the team offered him a $48 million two-year contract, which he immediately declined. Later, Thompson reportedly demanded a $135 million extension mirroring the Celtics’ 4-year extension with Jrue Holiday. If not for a whooping value, the team should settle the issue before it affects the locker room.

Apart from Looney, who could be affected by Klay Thompson?

A few days ago, Klay Thompson made it to headlines after unfollowing the Dubs’ social media. It was widely considered the star’s hint at the ‘take it or leave it’ offer. Moreover, several trade rumors also stated the 4x NBA Champs’ demand in the free agency. So the Dubs front office has to make quick before something could break up the Warriors trio.

In response to that, the team has to make several pending decisions, one of which has already been carried out. Star guard Gary Payton II, who had one more year in his contract, agreed to a $9.1 million player option. Dario Saric, who signed a one-year contract with the side, didn’t make an impact on the court. So, the team might let him go in this season.

Moreover, Saric’s former teammate Chris Paul, who came into the side with a 2-year contract, also has a knife hanging above his head. The team can either pay him $30 million and try out another year. Or they can let him go without paying anything. So, the bottom line is that the Dubs have a lot of decisions to make and some of them could disrupt the sanctity of the locker room.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about WNBA sensation Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, this video