Klay Thompson will become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the upcoming season. The Golden State Warriors All-Star guard is entering the final year of his contract, and there has been little movement on a potential extension so far. Thompson, 33, has been with the Warriors for the entirety of his NBA career.
When addressing the media on Oct. 2, Thompson cut a relaxed figure as he spoke about his current contract situation and the possibility of becoming a free agent. Rather than discuss the issue from a basketball perspective, Thompson simply informed the reporters in attendance that his “life is great” irrespective of what happens next summer.
Buy Warriors Tickets“I think it’s possible and if not, life is still great,” Thompson said. “Like I’m playing basketball in my 13th year in the NBA. I have no complaints about whatever the future has in store. I’ve done so many great things in this uniform and I know there are many more memories to make. Whatever happens, life is great!”
Thompson has recently bounced back from two serious injuries. Last season was Thompson’s first full NBA schedule since the 2018-19 season. However, the veteran sharpshooter showed little signs of rust when letting his shots fly from the perimeter, converting 41.2% on 10.6 attempts per game. Nevertheless, Thompson’s defense was below his usual standards and maybe something he looks to improve in the final year of his contract.
It’s worth remembering Golden State allowed Draymond Green to play out the final year of his contract before signing him to a four-year $100 million deal this past summer.
As such, there should be no reason to panic if Thompson doesn’t sign an extension during the season. After all, this could simply be a negotiation tactic to allow Mike Dunleavy time to asses Thompson’s current level and potential market value.
