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Did the Warriors disrespect Klay Thompson, or was it just business as usual in the NBA?

“It s**ks.” That’s exactly how Stephen Curry summed up the emotions after Klay Thompson’s shocking departure from the Golden State Warriors. After 13 years of sharpshooting alongside Curry, Klay is now with the Dallas Mavericks. Golden State made a quick move, signing Buddy Hield through a sign-and-trade deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. While it’s hard to replace a legend like Klay, Celtics icon Kevin Garnett seems thrilled about this switch.

According to reports, Hield’s contract spans four years, with $18 million guaranteed over the first two. The third year offers a $3 million partial guarantee, and there’s even a player option in the fourth year. It’s a calculated move for the Warriors, as they sent a 2031 second-round pick—originally from Dallas—over to Philadelphia in exchange.

Kevin Garnett didn’t hold back on his show KG Certified while discussing the Warriors’ recent changes. Garnett and Paul Pierce were debating their “Crackin’ Awards,” with Pierce hyping up Jalen Johnson as a future standout. Garnett interrupted with his own take: “Nah, man, Buddy Hield, Buddy Hield is cracking.” And in true KG fashion, he followed up with, “He one of the reasons, go to state. Klay who?”

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Garnett sees Hield as more than just a replacement. Interestingly, this isn’t Garnett’s first jab at Klay. Last year, he urged Thompson to rediscover his confidence after his injuries. “You got to be arrogant right now. Like, ‘I’m f**king Klay Thompson,’” Garnett said, emphasizing the importance of self-belief.

But those words feel like a distant memory now, with Garnett fully backing Hield instead. Even Paul Pierce chimed in on the matter, emphasizing the mental grind. “It’s all in between the ears, dog. Just get more time in the gym,” Pierce said.

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Thompson opens up about Warriors exit

Speaking with ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Thompson didn’t hold back about how the shift has impacted him. “Honestly, it’s rejuvenated me and done something I needed bad just for my mental and my career,” he shared. “I really feel the love here, and I feel highly valued that I can do great things.” 

What’s your perspective on:

Did the Warriors disrespect Klay Thompson, or was it just business as usual in the NBA?

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Dallas is giving him a fresh start, but let’s not sugarcoat it—things didn’t end smoothly in Golden State. According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne and Kendra Andrews, Thompson felt deeply “disrespected” when the Warriors didn’t offer him an extension after their 2022 NBA Finals win. After years of loyalty and championship success, the lack of commitment stung.

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To make matters worse, the Warriors stood firm on a two-year deal worth $23-24 million per season following the 2022-23 campaign. Unsatisfied with the offer, Thompson explored his options and eventually landed a three-year, $50 million contract with Dallas. The deal came together in a massive six-team sign-and-trade, marking the official end of his 13-year tenure with Golden State.

Even so, Thompson’s legacy in the Bay Area remains untouchable. He’s cemented his place in Warriors history as a five-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion. Whenever his playing days are over, you can bet his No. 11 jersey will hang in the rafters—a reminder of his incredible impact on the franchise.

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