Klay Thompson gave his most candid answer yet about his future with the Warriors as his contract expires this summer, and an extension hasn’t been agreed upon. Klay was on ‘The Draymond Green Show’ and revealed what he will prioritize while evaluating if he should return to Golden State.
“Just smelling the roses and appreciating all the work it took to get here. In saying that, when it comes to free agency in July, I just got to keep that in mind. Yes, I want to re-sign with the Dubs, but I also have to prioritize my mental health and lay out what is important to me at this point in my career. I know we have so much basketball ahead that I haven’t given it much thought. Because if I start thinking about July 1, then I’m just doing myself a disservice. For me it’s just about staying present, as simple as that is. Staying present and appreciating being in the NBA.”
Before this statement, Klay discussed how Draymond helped him refocus his mind after a tough start to the season, with Klay now appreciating just being in the NBA and playing for the love of the game instead of for money or accolades.
“You helped me a ton when you told me, ‘Lean into these young guys, lean into the fact that you’re a vet, you’ve made X amount of money, you don’t have to worry about anything. You’re playing for the love of the game.’ And I think once I realized that, I relaxed a little bit, rather than playing for a contract or All-Star nod or some accolade, but rather just play for the love of the game. The fact that I get to play cards with guys on the plane, we were playing ping pong last night after the game, we’re having fun. That’s the beauty of the game right there. Not trying to get another max deal or another endorsement.”
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The future for Klay is undecided after he and the Warriors couldn’t come to terms on an extension over the season. It’s been a down year for Klay, who is averaging 17.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, losing his spot in the starting lineup at different points of the season.
Klay Thompson Will Have Options
There’s no requirement for Klay to re-sign with the Warriors if they don’t offer him a contract that’s worth his time. He did mention he’s past worrying about his role or money, but if there’s a team that offers him a big contract, Klay could think about taking that instead of a low-ball Warriors offer.
The Orlando Magic are expected to be interested in Klay this summer as a young contender who desperately needs to add veterans and shooting. Giving Klay a massive contract similar to what the Rockets did with Fred VanVleet last summer is an avenue they can explore and one that’ll force the Warriors into either letting Klay walk or matching that price.
Even with a bad season, Klay’s value as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history and a four-time champion is unquestioned. If Golden State can’t find a way to value him, other franchises around the NBA will definitely make it work.
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