Warriors News: Klay Thompson Is ‘Pissed’ & Reportedly Eyeing Exit Over Draymond Green’s $160 Million Remarks

When the season began, every Golden State Warriors fan had one question lingering in their minds. Is this the last year of their core group playing together? Notably, Klay Thompson, a franchise icon just played the final season of his $189 million extension he signed in 2019. Now an unrestricted free agent, Thompson could entertain offers from elsewhere for the first time since he signed an extension five years ago. It could mean the break-up of his, Stephen Curry, and Draymond Green’s untouchable trio. But what if one of them was responsible for driving Thompson over the edge?

During an episode of the 95.7 The Game podcast, the hosts spoke about the five-time All-Star free agency options and the probability of signing back with the Warriors. Interestingly, they revealed how Thompson is “pissed” with Green for his comments after the loss in the play-in tournament to the Sacramento Kings. The defensive expert expressed his desire to continue playing with Thompson and echoed confidence in the organization to do right by him.

However, he provided an example that wasn’t appreciated by Klay. Green cited the Warriors giving him a $189 million extension in 2019 post an ACL tear as the reason he isn’t fazed by Thompson’s free agency. The hosts of the show believe Thompson didn’t receive the comments well since it is considered a “taboo” topic among athletes.

Thompson too was asked about it in his exit interview and he initially just laughed before making his sentiments known. “Well could you imagine if they didn’t pay me after I got hurt? That would have been really bad. Five straight finals and you blow your knee out. Yeah, sorry”, he told the reporters.

The four-time NBA champion did speak highly of the front office for putting their trust in him even in dark times. But there is a belief that Green’s comments ignored Thompson’s stupendous efforts in the Warriors’ rise as a dynasty. It might not have been the Warriors’ forward intention to offend his long-time teammate. But that’s what seems to have happened in the wake of his comments.

Klay Thompson and the Warriors are yet to work out a contract

It was April 17th when Klay Thompson had his exit interview for the Warriors. Back then he told the media his wish to unwind and relax before thinking about his future. Fast forward to June and it’s time for business. According to NBC Sports, the Golden State Warriors and Thompson are yet to have any discussions in relation to his future.

The Bay is open to the notion of retaining its loyal officer but only at the “right price” as The Athletic’s Anthony Slater reported. However, with no talks being initiated yet, Klay Thompson is reportedly testing the free agency waters and inviting offers from around the league. Several teams are rumored to be in the running to acquire Thompson, with the Thunder and Orlando Magic being the favorites.

Despite injury struggles in the past, Thompson beat allegations of being susceptible to injuries this season as he participated in 77 games and averaged nearly 18 points per game. Yes, the 0-10 performance in the Play-In game wasn’t ideal for Thompson’s stock. Yet, a four-time champion, one of the best shooters, and his spirit could be sufficient to lure a team in.

Do you think Klay Thompson is on his way out of the Bay? Let us know your views in the comments below. If you wish to see what Shaq’s ex-agent had to say about the future of Inside the NBA, watch our conversation with Leonard Armato in this video below.