Report: Klay could seek fresh start with Warriors contract talks ‘frozen’ originally appeared in NBC Sports Bay Area
Klay Thompson suiting up for another NBA franchise — a day Warriors fans would never have imagined coming at the height of Golden State’s dynasty — now seems closer than ever.
Even if the Warriors extend a competitive offer to Thompson, it’s realistic that the five-time All-Star could decide to leave Golden State anyway, seeking a fresh start elsewhere, The Athletic’s Anthony Slater reported on Saturday, citing league sources.
Thompson reportedly could seek a fresh start with another franchise to escape some of the friction that has built up with the Warriors over the past few seasons as the 34-year-old plays out the final years of the season. US$190 million contract he signed in July 2019.
Slater’s report also notes that while there is still an open window for Golden State and Thompson to negotiate a new deal before the official start of NBA free agency, negotiations between the Warriors and the sharpshooting guard have reached an impasse, with no offer being made. contract currently on the leaderboard. per league sources.
Thompson is looking a contract offer of at least three years, although the path to achieving the desired agreement may be difficult.
The market for Thompson may not be what the four-time NBA champion imagined, with the Orlando Magic – the main suitor for his services – reportedly not willing to extend the three-year offer the 34-year-old is seeking.
It is important to note the timeline for the remainder of the Warriors’ dynastic core, as Steph Currycoach Steve Kerr and defensive anchor Draymond Green are contracted for the next two seasons, with the latter having a player option for a third season.
With the futures of Curry, Green and Kerr uncertain beyond the 2025-26 NBA season, it would make sense if Golden State was hesitant to extend a deal with Thompson that doesn’t align with the rest of the franchise’s core pieces.
Anything is possible in the coming weeks, but the way things are trending, Warriors fans may have to brace themselves for a brutal reality where Golden State’s legendary Big Three don’t ride off into the sunset together.
