Klay Thompson, the Golden State Warriors shooting guard, will enter unrestricted free agency after the season, presenting the team with a challenging decision.
Thompson is experiencing his least productive season since his rookie year, raising questions about his future with the franchise. A recent revelation from NBA insider Bobby Marks sheds light on the Warriors’ dilemma in the upcoming summer.
According to Marks, Warriors owner Joe Lacob is exploring solutions to alleviate the team’s luxury tax concerns. Considering Thompson’s impending free agency and Chris Paul’s non-guaranteed contract for the following season, the offseason presents an opportunity to address this.
Thompson is reportedly seeking an annual salary between $25-30 million, which may be challenging to secure given his age, injury history, and current performance.
“If it’s not Golden State, then who is it?” Marks questioned. “It’s hard for me to see a team going out and committing three years, $75 million for Klay Thompson.”
Retaining Klay Thompson at a reduced rate would be advantageous for the Warriors, allowing them to fulfill Steph Curry’s desire to finish his career alongside Thompson and Draymond Green. Additionally, it provides flexibility to extend Jonathan Kuminga’s contract.
However, accommodating Thompson’s contract may necessitate parting ways with Andrew Wiggins, who is enduring his least productive season and has approximately $85 million remaining on his deal. The team’s priority will likely be securing Kuminga with a five-year, $131 million extension.
“Probably what you’re looking at in Minnesota with Jaden McDaniels,” Marks speculated. “He got five years for $131 (million). You’re probably looking at $30 million per year.”
