Author: Monojit Mandal
According to NBA insider Ramona Shelburne, contract extension discussions between Golden State Warriors standout Klay Thompson and the team have officially begun. Contrary to previous reports, it seems that negotiations are well underway.
Shelburne revealed this happy news during an interview on “The Lowe Post” podcast. “My understanding is that they have started talks about extending Klay Thompson’s contract,” Shelburne said. She went on to say: “This is a slow process. This notion that he’s been eligible for a long time and they haven’t done anything… no, they started arguing. They exchanged ideas. These debates are not rushed. Optionality works both ways”.
Although the news of the talks is encouraging, Thompson and the Warriors seem to be in no hurry to reach an agreement. This cautious pace can be planned, allowing the Warriors to examine their financial condition and, at the same time, allowing Thompson to demonstrate his ability next season.
Thompson, one of the pillars of the Golden State dynasty, is focused on optimizing his financial prospects rather than emphasizing his importance to the team. The ambiguity surrounding his recent performance, especially in last season’s playoffs, may generate reluctance in teams that intend to offer him a substantial multi-year contract.
So far, there seems to be mutual interest in extending Thompson’s collaboration with the Warriors beyond this season. However, both parties are acting cautiously before signing any extensive contractual agreements.
Klay Thompson’s reputation as a fantastic shooter, especially from beyond the three-point line, precedes him. He set the record for the most three-point shots made in a single NBA game on January 23, 2015, with 14. Thompson’s defensive ability is also generally recognised, and his ability to protect multiple points has earned him honours.
The road was not without its difficulties. Thompson tore his ACL in the 2019 NBA Finals, sidelining him for the entire 2019-20 season. In addition, a ruptured Achilles tendon in his right leg kept him out for most of the 2020-21 season. Thompson, on the other hand, made a triumphant return to the Warriors in January 2022, playing a key role in the franchise’s fourth NBA title in eight years.