In a move that has surprised many in the NBA community, Klay Thompson has signed with the Dallas Mavericks on a three-year, $50 million contract. This marks a new chapter for Thompson, whose illustrious 13-year tenure with the Golden State Warriors saw him win four NBA championships and become a pivotal figure in the franchise's modern era of success.
The decision to leave Golden State did not come lightly for Thompson, who overcame significant injuries, including a torn ACL and Achilles tendon, that sidelined him for two entire seasons. Returning to play a crucial role in the Warriors' 2022 title victory demonstrated his resilience and value to the team. Still, the dynamics within the Warriors' organization had shifted, leading to this eventual parting.
While Thompson was in the third season of a five-year, $189 million contract with Golden State, the Warriors' front office made moves that indicated a shift in priorities. These included extending Jordan Poole with a $123 million contract and finalizing a four-year, $100 million deal for Draymond Green. Last season, the Warriors offered Thompson a two-year, $48 million extension, which he ultimately turned down.
According to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, “The Warriors and Thompson have differing versions of the firmness of the offer and, again, the true desire of the franchise's lead decision-makers in valuing him as a can't-lose member of the core.” This disparity in perspectives highlights the complex negotiations and internal evaluations that led to the eventual separation.
The path to Thompson's departure from the Warriors has been described as a layered and prolonged process. “It's been a layered five-year path to this divorce, splintering last season, sprouting earlier and finalizing in the last couple weeks, where—among the conversations Thompson had, league sources said—was a request of Stephen Curry not to exert his significant organizational influence and up the temperature with management to ensure Thompson's return,” Slater noted. Curry's decision to stay measured and not pressurize the front office was noted, even if it could have potentially impacted the outcome.
From the Warriors' perspective, budgetary constraints and roster considerations played a significant role. The team was aiming to get below the luxury-tax line, which may have contributed to the tough decision-making regarding Thompson's future with the franchise. Moreover, the Warriors were also exploring other strategic options, including a potential trade for Paul George.
Ultimately, the divergence between what the Warriors were willing to offer and what Thompson felt he deserved became irreconcilable. “The answer to all this is likely somewhere in the middle. The Warriors valued Thompson, just not as much as he desired. They would've loved to have him back on their terms, but not on his. According to Slater, Thompson's decision to leave 'became easy when the Warriors kicked him down the summer pecking order.'”
Thompson's final season with the Warriors saw him at times removed from starting and closing lineups, hinting at the changing tides within the team. Now, with the Mavericks, Thompson brings his sharpshooting skills and championship experience to Dallas, a team looking to bolster its roster and make a deep playoff run.
For Thompson, moving to the Mavericks offers a fresh start and the opportunity to redefine the latter part of his career. His departure marks the end of an era for the Warriors, who must now navigate the post-Thompson landscape. As both parties move forward, the legacy of Thompson’s contributions to the Golden State dynasty remains indelible, characterized by his tenacity, skill, and the championships he helped secure.