One of the biggest storylines around the Golden State Warriors this season has to do with the future of Klay Thompson, who is playing on an expiring contract. Though weāre talking about a franchise legend, the decline in his production as well as his age make many wonder whether this could be his final year with the Dubs.
But it may be a bit soon to tell his time in the Bay area is over. In an appearance on the HoopsHype podcast of Michael Scotto, Anthony Slater of The Athletic explained why he thinks Thompson and the Warriors will ultimately agree on an extension.
āIf you have me predict, until Iām fooled or until Iām proven otherwise, I think theyāre going to keep Thompson around because of what he means historically to this franchise, and the number will be dictated by the market. If there are other teams out there willing to bump his number to a level the Warriors previously havenāt been willing to go, then maybe theyāll go to that number. If there hasnāt been, maybe Klay has to bring his ask down. But I do think, again, I would predict just because of what both sides mean to each other, I would think they would get something done.ā
Thompson has been instrumental to the Warriorsā success in the last decade, being a key contributor in four championships. Therefore, it would make sense for both parties to find a way to stay together. But itās safe to say he cannot expect to be paid like the player he once was.
Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors dribbling.
Klay Thompson may have to lower his contract demands
Once renowned for being one of the best shooters in the league, Thompson is only shooting 38.7% behind the arc, while averaging 17.4 points per game this season. Meanwhile, the Warriors clearly miss his best version as theyāre 12th in the Western Conference at 19-23.
see also
NBA Rumors: Stephen Curry is reportedly frustrated with Draymond Green, Warriors
On top of that, Thompson has undergone two surgeries in the last few years and will turn 34 in February. That doesnāt mean he wouldnāt be an interesting opportunity in the open market, but other teams may offer just as much as the Warriors.
Slater said Thompson is āromanticā about this stint and success with the Warriors, claiming that he even feels that more than any typical player. Weāll have to wait and see if that truly matters to him during contract talks.
