The Golden State Warriors have been a powerful empire in the NBA for the past 7 years. They brought home 4 championships, with a framework that included self-drafted players like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green or Klay Thompson.
The success of the Golden State Warriors has significant contributions from Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson
However, the combination of this trio does not seem to last too long, especially when they are all gradually reaching the limit point in their careers. Draymond Green’s contract expires in the summer of 2023 and cannot be renewed. Meanwhile, some rumors say Klay Thompson will also leave the CHASE Center in the summer of 2024 with the destination being the Los Angeles Lakers.
This information is shared by Heavy.com, through an interview excerpt with a senior manager of a Western team: “Klay Thompson might consider (moving to the Los Angeles Lakers). He grew up in the Los Angeles Lakers. next to a father who plays for the Lakers. That could greatly influence his decision.”
“However, he is part of the history and culture of the Golden State Warriors. The glories, injuries and memories with fans over the years are difficult to let go. The fans love him. It’s true.” It would be strange to see him in a different shirt,” the manager continued to share.
Klay Thompson’s father, Mychal Thompson, was a member of the Los Angeles Lakers from 1987 to 1991 and won two championships. The star himself, born in 1990, also grew up in a southern suburb of Los Angeles, before transferring to the University of Washington and entering the NBA.
Mr. Mychal Thompson (No. 43) was once an important player of the Los Angeles Lakers
A journey back “home” could be Klay Thompson’s next move, especially in the context of Draymond Green also having rumors of joining the Los Angeles Lakers. However, this may just be a “retirement” move, rather than adding steel to the Los Angeles Lakers to compete for the championship.
Summer 2024 is also the time when the contracts of LeBron James and Anthony Davis expire, with Player Option options for both. Anthony Davis will still be a top star at that time, but he has a history of serious injury. For LeBron James, “The King” will be 41 years old at that time and it will be difficult to maintain peak performance.
With Klay Thompson, he will also be a 34-year-old player at that time. The ability to shoot 3-pointers is a valuable weapon, even though it has been eroded by two consecutive injuries. Besides, the burden of age also made it difficult for Klay Thompson to maintain his playing intensity, as well as earn a big contract at that time.
Summer 2024 could also be the time when the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for a post-LeBron James rebuild. Bringing in a 34-year-old player with a salary of 15 to 20 million USD may not be a viable solution. The Los Angeles Lakers no longer have draft picks, they need a salary fund to attract All-Star level stars to the Crypto.com Arena.
Can Klay Thompson retire in the Golden State Warriors jersey, or will he return to his hometown Los Angeles Lakers?
The story of the future is still unpredictable, especially when there are more than 18 months left until Klay Thompson’s contract with the Golden State Warriors expires. It is also not excluded that the 34-year-old star will accept a salary reduction to dedicate his life to the “Golden Gate Warriors”.