Klay Thompson, a cornerstone of the Golden State Warriors for 13 years, recently bid farewell to the team. His move to the Dallas Mavericks via a three-team sign-and-trade deal worth $50 million marks the end of an era. However, what stands out is Thompson’s unique request to his superstar teammate, Stephen Curry, during the negotiations.
A recent Twitter post by The Dunk Central (@TheDunkCentral) sheds light on a surprising development surrounding the Golden State Warriors.
Klay Thompson told Steph Curry not to demand that the front office pay him, per @anthonyVslater
"I was told that Klay requested of Steph, 'Don't exert your influence. Don't demand that they do right by me financially. I want them to, want to [do that on their own]'"
(Via… pic.twitter.com/LoTtnQb8ct
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 2, 2024
This selfless act by Klay Thompson highlights his loyalty to the Warriors organization and raises questions about the dynamics behind his contract negotiations.
Klay Thompson’s Unconventional Ask
Rather than urging Curry to use his considerable influence with the front office, Thompson took a different approach. He requested that Curry refrain from demanding favorable treatment on his behalf. Thompson wanted the Warriors to decide based on their genuine desire to keep him, not because they felt pressured by Curry’s intervention.
The Warriors’ Dilemma
Thompson’s unrestricted free agency had been a hot topic for the Warriors over the past year. Despite winning four championships with the team, Klay Thompson sensed that the front office was exploring new directions. His request to Curry reflected his selflessness and trust in the organization’s intentions.
Facing Thompson in the West
Now, as Klay Thompson joins the Mavericks, the Warriors will face him as a formidable opponent in the Western Conference. His addition strengthens Dallas’s rotation, while Golden State enters a re-tooling phase. Losing Thompson hurts, but it also provides an opportunity for younger players to step up.