Klay Thompson in Line for Potential 4-Year Contract Valued at $30-35M Annually in the NBA

League executives estimate that Klay Thompson and the Golden State Warriors will extend his contract for an additional four years and $30-$35 million per season. Ongoing transactions concern Thompson’s extension.

Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated opined that, considering Thompson’s current productivity and the Warriors’ resolve to retain him, Draymond Green, and Stephen Curry collectively, that number “sounds reasonable.”

Curry’s contractual agreement remains in effect until the 2025–2026 campaign, while Green initiated a $100 million, four-year commitment in July.

On account of his prior injury history, Thompson’s contractual standing is undetermined to some degree. Following an Achilles tear and an ACL tear suffered in the 2019 NBA Finals, he was suspended for thirty months of basketball play the following year. During his first full season since 2018–19, 2022–23, he essentially regained his offensive prowess.

Despite his return to the NBA, Thompson exhibited an average of 21.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 41.2 percent from three-point range, which was largely consistent with his previous offensive prowess. Averaging 20 or more points per game, 36 players converted at least 40% of their three-point attempts during the previous campaign.

Nevertheless, during the 2018–19 season, a mere 35 players achieved 20 points, while 22 players succeeded in 40 percent of their three-point attempts. One could posit that Thompson’s value relative to the rest of the NBA has diminished substantially since he executed his prior contract, considering his evident deterioration on defense.

Thompson naturally does not hold that view.

The Spokesman-Review reflects on Klay Thompson’s momentous night in Oklahoma City and its significance in the Warriors’ dynasty.

“I believe (my difficulties) were somewhat exaggerated,” Thompson allegedly responded, according to Anthony Slater of The Athletic. “Our team is presently subject to an excessive degree of scrutiny.” You are obligated to acknowledge that. I experienced intermittent challenges pertaining to my ball control. I regard myself as a human being. Immediately, then, what? Notwithstanding this, I paced the division in made 3-pointers with 41%. Such an absurdity. over three hundred varieties. I shall not minimize my own capabilities. I am cognizant of the extraordinary nature of that. That is a significant undertaking to achieve in the aftermath of ACL and Achilles reconstructions.

Thompson must demonstrate improved defensive lateral agility in the modern NBA for his $30–$35 million annual salary to be validated, despite his diligent efforts. If he were to undergo a turnstile transformation when he reaches his mid- to late 30s, that bargain would swiftly become apparent as being overvalued.