Klay Thompson has been the focus of much speculation regarding his NBA future despite a decorated career with the Golden State Warriors. There’s a real possibility he could depart to sign with a new team in free agency amid a financial crunch his current team faces.
Marc Stein reported that the Orlando Magic have emerged as a potential free-agency contender for Thompson, serving as an additional mention of the team after Shams Charania named the Los Angeles and Florida teams and some East Coast suitors in recent reporting.
“Orlando has been increasingly mentioned as a potential suitor for Klay Thompson in free agency,” Stein wrote. “The Magic’s available cap space is difficult to project this far out. That figure could rise as high as $45 million but depends on their future plans with free agents-to-be Markelle Fultz and Gary Harris as well as Jonathan Isaac (whose $17.4 million salary next season is non-guaranteed).”
The question remains as to what extent the Warriors are willing to commit to Thompson, who remains a valuable player known for his 3-point shooting despite no longer being at his peak All-Star level. His recent shift to a sixth-man role has been viewed positively around the league. Still, it raises questions about his future contract and role, especially with teams like Orlando showing interest.
Complicating matters is the Warriors’ aim to reduce their luxury tax burden. Team Governor Joe Lacob recently desired to lower the team’s tax implications, potentially by renegotiating contracts. This includes Thompson, currently on a $42 million salary, and possibly Chris Paul.
With eight guaranteed contracts totaling approximately $137 million for the next season and the luxury tax threshold projected at $172 million, even offering Thompson a $25 million annual contract would significantly limit the Warriors’ financial flexibility for filling out the rest of their roster.
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