Klay Thompson Reflects On Stint With Warriors Ahead Potential Season-Ending Play-In Game

Klay has had a rough season, watching his shooting efficiency plummet compared to the high standard he used to have for himself. Klay is a sub-40% shooter and his offensive inconsistencies are among the many reasons why the Warriors currently occupy the No. 10 seed.

Thompson is averaging 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists this season. His contract is expiring in the summer and he is yet to agree on an extension, with talks between the team and player collapsing over the season. Klay will hit the open market, which could mark the end of his time on the Warriors given an interest from young teams who are willing to pay him big for his shooting and veteran experience. 

If the Warriors lose to the Kings in the 9-10 Play-In Tournament, it very well might be the final game Klay Thompson plays while wearing a Warriors jersey.

Klay Thompson Might Not Re-Sign

Thompson turned extension offers from Golden State down this season because he believed the team wasn't willing to pay him what he was worth. The only way that belief could change is if Klay leads the Warriors to a deep playoff run, but the odds are slim. If the Warriors are eliminated tonight, there's no way we can say Klay will re-sign if the front office doesn't give him what he wants.

Klay made it clear that he wants to re-sign with the Warriors but will prioritize his own needs before rushing to extend with the franchise.

"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."

Klay is being heavily monitored by the Orlando Magic, who could easily fill their cap space with a short-term max for Klay, similar to the contract the Rockets gave Fred VanVleet. While it won't be ideal for Klay, he gets to continue playing on a competitive playoff team.

Imagining Klay leaving the Warriors is an insane thought, but what's crazier is that we could be a few months away from that outcome playing out in front of our eyes.