Brian Windhorst identifies the key to Klay Thompson Warriors contract talks – NBC Sports Bay Area & California

The Warriors have a tough decision to make this summer regarding Klay Thompson.

The five-time NBA All-Star will hit the market as an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career after he and Golden State were unable to come to terms on a contract extension last season.

Golden State has been vocal about its desire to re-sign Thompson, but after a disappointing 2023-24 season, it’s unclear exactly what the 34-year-old’s value is on the open market and what the Warriors would be comfortable paying. In order to retain one of their franchise legends.

ESPN NBA analyst Brian Windhorst joins “Get Up” on Monday, where he discussed Thompson’s contract and what he believes will be key to reaching a deal with the Warriors.

“I think the key here is that it’s not just about the amount of money, it’s about the number of years,” Windhorst said. “It’s the same thing with Paul George. Kawhi Leonard took less than the max, but I think the key for Paul is that he took three years, not the max which would be five. I think Paul George wants five, or at least four for sure.” Clay is going to have to take a pay cut, and he’s going to go down.

“But how many years can he get? Andrew Wiggins took a pay cut but got four years.” Draymond [Green] He took a pay cut but got four years. That’s the thing. “I wouldn’t be intimidated. If I was a Warriors fan, I wouldn’t overreact to this, but I think the negotiation season has definitely started.”

That Thompson will get paid from his 2023-24 salary of $43.2 million seems like a foregone conclusion in the eyes of many evaluators.

While the Warriors can begin contract negotiations with Thompson the day after the NBA Finals conclude, the free agency negotiating window for other teams will open on June 30 at 3 p.m. PT.

However, the length of his contract may be just the hurdle the two sides have to overcome to reach an agreement.

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