Amidst the uncertainties surrounding Klay Thompson"s future with the Golden State Warriors, the veteran sharpshooter has hinted at a potential compromise to ensure his continued presence in the Bay Area.
In an interview with The Ringer"s Logan Murdock, Thompson expressed his willingness to embrace a reduced role if it secures his place in the only NBA team he has ever known.
“Yeah, there’s nothing wrong with that," Thompson stated when questioned about the prospect of a reduced role. “I’ll be 35 next year. At 35, coming off the ACL and an Achilles [tear] and still have the ability to be a really good player. Maybe not the guy who scored 60 in three quarters and scored an NBA record 37 points in a quarter, but still a great threat out there."
Klay Thompson says he’s open to a reduced role if it means staying with the Warriors, per @loganmmurdock
"There’s nothing wrong with that. I’ll be 35 next year. At 35, coming off the ACL and an Achilles [tear] and still have the ability to be a really good player. Maybe not the… pic.twitter.com/kTgP2fJ3or
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 12, 2024
Currently, in the final year of his contract, negotiations for a deal beyond the 2023-24 season are ongoing between Thompson and the organization.
Acknowledging the toll of injuries, including an ACL and Achilles tear, the 35-year-old guard remains optimistic about his ability to contribute significantly to the team.
Having spent his entire 13-season NBA career with the Warriors, Thompson reflects on the special bond formed with teammates Steph Curry and Draymond Green.
“I just think it’s a special, special group, and then when we win and go to so many championships together, … it’s like a bond for life," Thompson expressed. “It’s probably the best part of the job, honestly. Trumps the money, trumps the fame, just being able to have a bond for life with those guys."
Thompson"s journey, marked by lights-out shooting and instrumental contributions to five consecutive NBA Finals appearances and three titles, faced setbacks due to serious injuries. However, the seasoned player has adopted a new perspective, focusing on enjoying the game and being effective in his current role.
“I just needed a little perspective shift and rather than trying to be the old me or be an All-Star in the NBA or whatever," Thompson explained. “Just to be as effective as I can in my current role and, most importantly, just have fun, man, because at the end of the day, I only have so many years more doing this and got to have fun."
Despite initial struggles this season, Thompson has displayed glimpses of his former self in recent games. With a season average of 16.9 points, 41.3 percent shooting from the field, and 37.3 percent from beyond the arc, Thompson continues to be a valuable asset for the Warriors as he navigates through the latter part of his illustrious career.
