With free agency less than ten days away, it’s looking more and more likely that the Warriors will part ways with four-time champion Klay Thompson.
It appears that Klay and Golden State are in somewhat of a stalemate, according to The Athletic’s Anthony Slater.
“There’s been no productive discussion between the Warriors and Thompson or his representatives,” Slater revealed. Thompson’s exit from the only franchise he has ever known feels closer and more probable than ever before.
Even though Slater says Thompson may end up back with the Dubs if a rival team doesn’t offer him what he wants, the 34-year-old is seeking a sea change.
“There has been no traction between Thompson and the Orlando Magic, according to league sources, despite some initial mutual interest,” Slater says.
“There is expected to be interest from other cap space teams and some longer-term offers on the table in a market that can always move in unpredictable directions. It’s always possible Thompson’s best offers may end up smaller in money and shorter in years than many predicted or expected, leading some to presume that’ll lead back to an inevitable reunion with the Warriors at a rate both sides are comfortable.
“But that’s not necessarily the case. Even if the Warriors eventually approach Thompson with a competitive offer, matching or exceeding the money and years, it has become increasingly conceivable, according to league sources, that Thompson will decide to leave regardless, searching for a fresh start in a different environment, detached from some of the built-up friction of the previous couple seasons.
It no doubt be an emotional time for Thompson if he does decide to part ways with the only NBA team he’s ever known.
But the Warriors’ tax bill is a big problem and if the storied franchise can nab a big-name, big money player, then this would significantly impact any deal tabled to Klay.
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