Podziemski isn’t apprehensive about challenging the Warriors’ superstars despite being a rookie. A report by The Athletic revealed that the rookie guard arranged a quiz competition that involved money. Thompson was hesitant to participate, which prompted Podziemski to remind him that he was participating in the quiz despite earning $4.05 million a year, $39.86 Million less than Klay’s salary for the 2023-24 season.

The rookie’s jibe did not sit well with the four-time NBA champion, who told him to stop “pocket-watching.”

pic.twitter.com/DbAiFWKleJ

— warriorsworld (@warriorsworld) February 20, 2024

Podziemski’s lack of fear in calling out Thompson for refusing to participate in the quiz despite the $39.86 million difference in their salaries showcases his mentality. He believed in his ability to win the quiz, despite money being at stake, and wasn’t willing to take no for an answer from the 34-year-old.

Podziemski’s confidence is commendable and indicates why the Warriors trust him to close games despite his rookie status.

Brandin Podziemski is not afraid to call out Draymond Green

Draymond Green has been the vocal and emotional leader of the Warriors since his sophomore season. The veteran forward has gotten into a public spat with teammates and is often the first to call them out if he spots them lacking on the court. While most rookies only listen to what Green says, Podziemski isn’t afraid to call out the veteran forward and give him a taste of his medicine.

Before the Warriors’ second game of the season, the team had set up a scrimmage between the starters and the rotation players. Green and Podziemski were on the same team and lost the game after the veteran turned the ball over. The rookie immediately criticized the veteran and left him astonished. However, Green took it in stride, saying,

“I was like, ‘OK, cool, you got it. No problem. Here we are playing a pick-up game, a game to get me ready and he’s yelling at me. That to me said a whole lot. I was like, ‘You know what? No problem. But make sure you speak up like that all the time.’”

Podz getting at Dray over a turnover during scrimmage

Via @anthonyVslater

Link: https://t.co/rl1RDS11IU pic.twitter.com/a3XrGr8qyx

— warriorsworld (@warriorsworld) February 20, 2024

The Warriors are encouraging Podziemski’s leadership and are benefitting from it. The team has a history of turning guards into superstars, and he could be the latest to join the ranks of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Jordan Poole in leading the franchise to glory.

The post Despite Earning More Than Brandin Podziemski, Klay Thompson Hit Warriors Rookie With ‘Pocket Watching’ Claim appeared first on The SportsRush.

While discussing the Splash Brother’s decline in output, KG declared, “You got to be arrogant right now. Like, ‘I’m f**king Klay Thompson’. F**king right. You got to talk yourself into it”. “So believe that affirmation s**t. You tell yourself that s**t, you look yourself in the mirror, you start to believe that s**t,” he further advised.

The co-panelist Paul Pierce joined the conversation soon after, highlighting the importance of trusting the process. “I think it’s all in between the ears, dog. All you do is get a little more time in the gym. Just put in that extra. Don’t beat yourself up with it. Because that type of s**t, it’ll wear on you,” the Truth mentioned.

 

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Hence, the 2008 NBA champions shed light on the necessity of mental fortitude in high-output athletic performance. Both of them refused to associate the 34-year-old’s downfall with technical aspects while displaying faith in his track record. Therefore, they demanded the 5x champion put his entire effort into building a support system to navigate through the forgettable phase.

Interestingly, the California-born might just have found out the potion. Despite averaging 17.3 points per game while shooting 37.3% from behind the arc, the 6ft 6″ guard dominated the previous clash. Coming off the bench, the 2011 draft pick registered 35 points in 28 minutes while shooting 59% from the field and 53.8% from behind the 3-point line. So, if Thompson did hear Garnett’s words before the game, they clearly worked for him. Further, this game by him could even result in the star turning a corner to become an active part of the Warriors’ offense again.

With playoffs knocking on the door, this display has instilled hope in the Bay Area as the Thompson aims high.

Klay Thompson keeps his faith in the pedigree

Despite the lackluster form on the court, his self-belief has remained unmatched throughout. Amidst the inconsistent phase of the organization, the Warriors guard had always kept his optimism alive for a post-season run. “I see Steph Curry. I see Draymond [Green]. I go home and check our playoff record as a trio and then you add what we have as champions, I believe,” he previously announced.

Klay Thompson on the deadline rumors: “I don’t partake in NBA discourse.”

-On his desire to be with the Warriors long term: “That is correct. Good assessment.”

-On his belief in this team: “I see Steph Curry. I see Draymond. I go home and check our playoff record.” pic.twitter.com/tMe2IH5MCy

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) February 8, 2024

His words worked like a charm as the franchise recovered their form to a major extent. Winning six of their previous seven matches, the Dubs are currently on a 27-26 run in the regular season. The qualification to the playoffs remains an ultimate challenge for the organization. Yet, the franchise trusts its pedigree as the NBA looks forward to its upcoming endeavors.

The post “I’m F**king Klay Thompson”: Kevin Garnett Wants The Warriors Guard To Hype Himself Out Of His Slump appeared first on The SportsRush.

Klay Thompson’s season has emulated that of his franchise and has been very inconsistent. He has not looked like the Hall of Fame player we have gotten accustomed to seeing. Even during the Warriors’ recent 8-2 run, Thompson has been all over the place regarding his shooting and decision-making. This slew of bad performances forced the head coach to bring him off the bench for the first time in his career since 2012. And what a decision it turned out to be!

Warriors played their last game before the All-Star break against the Utah Jazz, and Thompson was asked to come off the bench. The player embraced the role and came out with blazing guns. He scored a season-high 35 points, played solid defense, and did not turn over the ball. He looked like the Klay Thompson of old. It would be premature to overreact to one performance, but the four-time champion did look more comfortable on the court.

Thompson’s performance became the conversation point for all NBA media shows. ESPN’s ‘First Take’ Analyst – Stephen A. Smith, gave his viewpoint and kept it very real. He acknowledged his performance but did not overreact because he believes Klay has set himself to higher standards over the years. With examples of his record-breaking performances, Smith believes that the NBA player has more to offer. Here is what he said:

“….We are talking about one of the greastest shooters in the history of the league. So what I want a guy like Klay Thompson to hear is two things. Don’t try to get over, bro. Ain’t nobody saying Klay Thompson can’t play. Ain’t nobody saying that Klay Thompson isn’t a future Hall of Famer. Ain’t nobody saying that Klay Thompson is not one of the greatest shooter this game has ever known. What we are saying is, you haven’t measured up to the standards that you have spoilt us with over the course of your career before you got injured.”

.@stephenasmith is confident Klay Thomspon will thrive off the bench, but says he’s “not out of the woods” yet. pic.twitter.com/Dp3V81y2Ln

— First Take (@FirstTake) February 16, 2024

The NBA Analyst talked about the Warriors player going 0-4 in the fourth quarter despite having his best game of the season. Klay has been struggling to perform in the fourth quarter. After two major career-altering injuries, his legs seemed to run out of juice. The analyst also believes the NBA champion will thrive coming off the bench, as it will lead to less exhaustion and pressure to perform from the jump. Smith was adamant in pointing out that these performances were not a knock on the player, and most of the franchises would avail his services without batting an eye.

It’s hard to disagree with Stephen A. Smith’s comments about Klay Thompson. The player has most certainly set incredibly high standards for himself. And so, while the performance against the Jazz is a start, there is more to the road that Thompson is on. Now, the only hope is that he doesn’t go awry all over again.

Klay Thompson to continue off the bench

After his scintillating performance off the bench, one would assume that Klay Thompson will be back in the starting five. However, that will not be the case. After the game, Golden State Warriors head coach – Steve Kerr confirmed that he would be trying out this new line-up for the near future unless he sees any reason otherwise. Here is what he said:

“Klay coming off the bench gives us a lot of firepower. We’ll give it a little look and see where it goes from there.”

Klay’s recent struggles did force Kerr’s hand into starting him off the bench, but that’s not the only reason. The head coach likes what he is seeing from the rookie – Brandin Podziemski, and believes he gives the starting five a better flow. Thompson has embraced the new challenge from his coach and said the following in the post-game conference:

“Throughout the game, when I’m running with the second unit, I realised I might be more of a focal point to the offense. That’s a fun role to play. I just wanted to take it upon myself to prove to coach [Steve Kerr] that I was going to respond like the champ I am.”

Though one game is a small sample size, the Warriors will feel like this could be the beginning of something new. With the team playing better overall since the return of Draymond Green and the resurgence of Jonathan Kuminga, the San Francisco franchise can make some waves in the post-season. However, they cannot do it without Klay Thompson, and this could be a brilliant step towards unlocking the future Hall of Fame player.

The post “Don’t Try to Get Over, Bro”: Stephen A. Smith Provides Klay Thompson a Reality Check After 35-Point Game appeared first on The SportsRush.

While making her appearance on SiriusXM Radio, the hosts asked Sabrina Ionescu if she ever shot the ball against any NBA players before. And Sabrina went on to reveal that she had once gotten into a shooting contest of sorts against Stephen Curry.

“Steph, yeah. And he can tell you who won…It was me. But we played HORSE, so…We were going back to back from half-court shots. We got to four and then he missed and so I won.”

“It was me.” @sabrina_i20 reveals she once beat @StephenCurry30 in a game of HORSE.

Hear more from #NBAAllStar weekend on NBA Radio all weekend long! https://t.co/Siy1ymsQrr@TermineRadio | @Jumpshot8 | #StateFarmSaturday pic.twitter.com/6gf3IQiFdP

— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) February 16, 2024

Sabrina Ionescu revealed that she ended up beating the Golden State Warriors star point guard in a game of HORSE. The game, however, was just shooting half-court shots against one another till one person won. The New York Liberty guard unveiled the fact that both Stephen Curry and herself managed to make it to four shots. But in the end, Curry could not drain the fifth shot and that’s when Ionescu was crowned the winner.

One of the hosts also asked her if she could replicate Stephen Curry’s shot from the tunnel that he sunk a few days ago. Ionescu admitted that she wasn’t sure if she could replicate that shot made by the four-time NBA champion.

The hosts then went on to discuss how Sabrina and Curry should recreate the iconic commercial that was once done by Michael Jordan and Larry Bird way back in the 90s for McDonald’s.

Sabrina Ionescu and Stephen Curry are all ready to face off against one another in the Stephen vs Sabrina 3-Point Challenge. For the contest, Stephen Curry and Sabrina Ionescu will both be shooting from the NBA’s three-point line with NBA basketballs. 

Before this, Ionsecu was supposed to shoot from the WNBA’s three-point line with WNBA basketballs. So, it will be interesting to see how Ionescu performs in this updated format.

Who will come out on top among Stephen Curry & Sabrina Ionescu?

The three-point contest between Stephen Curry and Sabrina Ionescu has gained a lot of traction lately. So much so that even NBA stars are making their picks between the Golden State Warriors All-Star and the New York Liberty guard.

Kevin Durant has been going back and forth between choosing Stephen Curry and Sabrina Ionescu. KD first picked Steph to win it all but then changed his pick to Sabrina, only to switch back to Steph once again. KD might’ve given his haters a subtle jab when he said, “You know I like to switch.”

Stephen Curry’s long-time teammate Klay Thompson was also asked to make a pick between the two. Thompson may have played the instigator as well as he picked Sabrina over his own teammate.

Even Kyrie Irving went on to pick Sabrina Ionescu since she was the defending champion and Stephen Curry was the challenger. Tune into the All-Star weekend to see who out of the two great shooters will come out on top in the end.

The post Ahead Of Her 3 Point Showdown Against Stephen Curry, Sabrina Ionescu Claims to Beat Him From Half Court In HORSE appeared first on The SportsRush.

Coming off the bench, Klay Thompson had a historic performance. Knocking down 7 three-pointers on 13 attempts, Thompson recorded his season-high of 35 points. Further, Klay also reached the 15,000 total career points milestone.

Klay Thompson came off the bench and made a big-time impact tonight

35 PTS | 6 REB | 7 3PM pic.twitter.com/mILnbVbyP3

— NBA (@NBA) February 16, 2024

Thompson’s historic night allowed the Golden State Warriors to clinch a 140-137 win. And following the game, Andrew Wiggins disclosed how impressed he was by Klay’s reaction to being benched. The forward stated how commendable it was for an All-Star of the 6ft 6” sharpshooter’s caliber to not whin about the same. Further lauding the four-time champion, Wiggs said,

“Klay’s a true professional. He didn’t complain or nothing. He[Klay Thompson] took it out on the court. You know, he played his heart out, had a great game, play competitive and that’s the Klay we love to see… Klay’s that guy everyone wants to see do good. He’s a great guy, he works hard.”

“He didn’t complain or nothing. He took it out on the court.”

Wiggs praises Klay’s response to coming off the bench pic.twitter.com/C0LkwPCVy8

— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) February 16, 2024

Apart from Thompson’s incredible output, Podziemski was also impressive and played much beyond expectations. The rookie guard recorded 13 points, 6 rebounds, and 8 assists, and was the only starter to finish the game with a positive box plus-minus. As we advance, it won’t be surprising to see Steve Kerr use this lineup more often.

Klay Thompson embraced his new role

Not every All-NBA caliber player can be as professional as Klay Thompson was upon being benched. However, the shooting guard did reveal that he chose to embrace the role and “respond” on the court rather than sulking about the same.

“You can do two things, you can pout, or you can go out there and respond. I thought I did the latter very well tonight,” Klay said.

“You can do two things, you can pout, or you can go out there and respond.”

Klay reveals how he shifted his mindset in coming off the bench after a talk with Kerr pic.twitter.com/jC9XALO57c

— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) February 16, 2024

This season, Klay Thompson has not been as productive. Behind Stephen Curry, Jonathan Kuminga has been the second option for the Bay Area side. Hence, being the focal point of the second unit, Thompson had a “fun” time and was able to perform better in the reduced game time that he received.

Further talking about the learnings that he took away from the new role, the 34-year-old said,

“I learned some things tonight that I’m gonna carry with myself throughout the whole season.”

Klay learned a lot about himself in coming off the bench, and enjoyed being a focal point of the second unit pic.twitter.com/7UEYCEDTJI

— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) February 16, 2024

Before tonight’s 35-point explosion, Thompson was averaging merely 13.3 points on 24.5% 3FG in February. By being benched, Kerr seemed to have helped his star player reset.

Once the Warriors resume after the All-Star break, fans will hope for the five-time All-Star to produce several such performances. With the GSW sitting only 10^th in the West, Klay needs to pick up some offensive load off Stephen Curry’s shoulders and help the team push for a playoff spot.

The post “Klay Thompson Took It Out on the Court”: Andrew Wiggins Revealed Warriors Star’s Reaction to Coming Off the Bench appeared first on The SportsRush.

“He has been playing at that level all season…he was elevated all season. He was averaging 31 all season..he took a dip when Draymond got suspended. The fact that their in the 10th spot, playing so well, tells you where their ceiling is… The ceiling is the roof. We acting like Steph ain’t been doing this all season. It’s the rest of the motherfu**ing team, it’s the other 14 players that’s the problem.”

Arenas may be right with his take, as the Warriors look shallow without Steph’s firepower. In fact, with Draymond out, the Warriors struggled, with Curry often being a one-man show.

This season, Curry has averaged 28.1 points on 42.1% shooting from three, and 92.7% shooting from the free throw line. Curry is leading the team in points, three points made, fast break points, and true shooting percentage.

The rest of the team has struggled significantly more than Curry. Draymond has missed, what seems like half of the current season due to suspensions and injuries. Jonathan Kuminga had his coming out party this year but has gone cold over the past month. Klay Thompson has been having an all-time low this season, shooting just 37.3% from three and 41.8% from the floor.

Even in the latter half of the Warriors and the Splash Brothers’ legacy, Curry is performing at the highest level and barely keeping his team afloat in the current season. Coming through in clutch situations and taking topnotch winning shots for the team has been the identity of the sharpshooter and he is strengthening that with every game.

Klay Thompson might be ready for “less”

With Draymond back in the lineup, the Warriors seem to be on a roll once again. Curry has also stepped up his game, scoring an insane buzzer-beater during their recent outing against the Phoenix Suns.

That being said, Klay Thompson seems to be absent throughout the team’s revival. Thompson has struggled dearly this season, showing only glimpses of his older self. According to Arenas, Klay has come to accept ‘father time’. Talking about it further, Gilbert Arenas said,

“The fact that a few months later, he was ready to take a lesser role, to stay with the team. Reality kicked in…Cause if he was balling like he thought he would have, he would have been asking for 4yr/$100 million.”

The Warriors and Klay reached a deadlock over the sharpshooter’s contract. He was offered a generous 2 yr/$48 million, however, he ended up declining his player option, choosing to enter his final year without a surety of return. Over the season it’s become clear that Thompson isn’t who many thought he is. Injuries have caught on, and he no longer is a top two-way player in the league.

With Stephen Curry going off, it’s important for the franchise to not waste the 35-year-old’s talent. The Warriors staff and HC Steve Kerr have to return to the drawing board. As the Warriors currently sit in the 10th spot in the West, the odds of Curry not making these playoffs seem to be a growing reality.

The post “It’s The Other 14 Players That’s The Problem”: Gilbert Arenas Berates the Warriors for Overburdening Stephen Curry appeared first on The SportsRush.

Looking back on his time with the 18x All-Star, the 2x champion mentioned, “My favorite moments with Kobe with just him and me sitting in the gym alone, 3-4 hours before the game. Just talking about the NBA. Talking about how it used to be during the showtime era. Comparing eras to my time and his time and sometimes just talking about life”.

The former center admitted to discussing their time playing basketball in Italy in different eras while also sharing details of their personal lives. “Just me and him alone in a darkened arena before the lights came on,” he recollected upon reflecting. “Those are my best moments with Kobe,” the 6ft 10″ icon candidly mentioned.

 

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Instances such as these became invaluable chapters in the journey of the Bahamas-born as he worked with the 2008 MVP for a significant time. Since joining the Lakers as a color commentator in 2003, the veteran developed a close association with the 6ft 6″ guard. Thus, in the late great’s absence, the memories spurred in his mind upon looking back.

The occasion of Bryant’s statue unveiling certainly played a key role behind it. The occasion undoubtedly reignited those thoughts as Mychal eventually let his emotions take over. Simultaneously, it showcased the lesser-known social side of the Black Mamba as he cultivated several such memorable relationships.

How Kobe Bryant subsequently influenced Klay Thompson

The bond between those two generations eventually inspired the generation after that. As Mychal once revealed on 95.7 The Game, “I could take him [Klay] to Staples Center and say, ‘There’s Kobe, go talk to him'”. “Then Kobe would take the time and be gracious enough to talk to Klay and other young people like Klay who were basketball players who were coming up,” he revealed.

The friendship between his father and his NBA hero used to surprise the Golden State Warriors guard at times too. One such instance happened when the Philadelphia-born joined the Thompsons at a dinner table as Klay mentioned, “I’m like, of all the people you picked to sit with right now, you pick my Pops to talk to?! This is crazy. I didn’t say a word. I was so starstruck”.

Down the line, these restricted interactions understandably left a major impact on the mindset of a young shooting guard. In the coming years, the California-born put the accumulated knowledge into use as he conquered the basketball circuit in his rights. This adds another layer to the worldwide impact of Kobe Bean Bryant as his tale continues to this day.

The post Refusing To Pick An In Game Moment Of Kobe Bryant’s, Klay Thompson’s Father Delves Into What His Favorite Time Spent With Him Was appeared first on The SportsRush.

During a segment of the show, a question regarding the Warriors’ longevity was brought to light. Co-hosts Kenyon Martin and Brandon Jennings, alongside the episode guest Norris Cole, didn’t believe that the Warriors had ‘it’ in them anymore. Jennings did express his belief that the Warriors could make the playoffs but making a deep run would be an entirely different thing.

With everyone’s points on the table, Arenas decided to put forward his observations, letting everyone know that, next season, the Warriors might have a chance to run it back. The recent slump that Klay Thompson has been in seems to fit perfectly in Arenas’ calculations.

According to Arenas, Thompson going on a scoring streak will only make things worse for the Dubs. As better performances from Klay would mean greater financial demands from him during the off-season. Klay has already turned down an offer for 2 years, $48 million and will expect even more if his form soars later down the line. Talking about it in detail, Arenas told his guests,

“If you [Klay] just pop off in the playoffs, and now you asking for 100 Million….you saw him struggle all year…he pops off, now he is asking for 4 years/100 Million…you don’t want that, that’s the last thing you want.”

These statements from Arenas and the crew aren’t completely out of pocket, as both the Warriors and Klay Thompson have been struggling this season. Klay has managed to keep things somewhat afloat, posting a season average of 17.1 points, and 3.5 rebounds with a 41.7% field goal percentage while shooting 37.7% from three.

But the last few games have been ugly for Thompson, with him even being benched during the game against the Nets(on Wednesday). As for the Warriors, they currently hold the 11th spot in the West, carrying an underwhelming record of 24-25.

Arenas’ point makes sense if you take into account the Dubs’ payroll this season. The Warriors are paying a boatload of money to players who have done great things in the past but are no longer in their prime. Therefore, breaking up the dynasty seems almost inevitable. According to Arenas, the Dubs should not worry too much about the current season so that they can get some good picks and start rebuilding from next year. However, what the three-time NBA All-Star doesn’t highlight is this rebuilding approach might cost them their centerpiece, Stephen Curry, who doesn’t have many more years to waste just to get the right team around him.

Klay Thompson and the Warriors

Last summer, Klay Thompson and the Warriors failed to reach an agreement on a contract extension. That meant that this season, Thompson would be betting on himself, as a good season would sound the bell for more money and vice versa. As it currently stands, the Warriors are paying Thompson a whopping $48 Million a year. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Warriors did offer Klay a good contract, “Contract negotiations between Thompson and the Warriors stalled over salary and length of an extension being discussed. I’m told the Warriors were offering Thompson a two-year deal in the range of $48 million before the season.”

Looking further into the matter, it was obvious that Thompson wasn’t ready to deal with such a serious pay cut, as the Warriors guard had just led the league in three-point scoring the season before. But unfortunately for Thompson, his recent performances are only making things worse.

“Klay’s going through a bit of a rut. He’s still a helluva player and a guy we’re going to need & count on, but this last week there’s been a few games where it felt like it was right to close with someone else. He’s embraced it. He’s accepted it.”

Steve Kerr w/ @WillardAndDibs.

— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) February 7, 2024

Just this week, Thompson faced his first-ever fourth-quarter snub, as Kerr chose a younger replacement for the star shooting guard. After the game Klay expressed his frustration over his recent play, agreeing with Kerr’s decision to bench him.

The post “Now He’s Asking for 4 Years $100 Million”: Klay Thompson’s Slump Has Gilbert Arenas Wary of How Much the Warriors Pay Him appeared first on The SportsRush.

To celebrate the veteran Warrior’s birthday and the win against the Sixers, the Dubs squad assembled in their team plane’s cabin and sang the ‘Happy Birthday’ song for Thompson in the most endearing manner possible. All of the Warriors players assembled to celebrate Klay’s birthday seemed to be living in the moment, singing their hearts out to celebrate Thompson turning 34.

Brandin Podziemski and Trayce Jackson-Davis were seen leading the pack with their singing, while Draymond Green directed this rookie choir. Overjoyed with the affectionate moment, Thompson recorded it all and posted it on his Instagram story with an endearing caption saying, “Conducter Dray and a rookie Choir. Terrible singers, but I love em.” NBCS’ official Warriors handle reposted this Klay story clip on X.

The Warriors sing happy birthday to Klay on the plane

[via @KlayThompson IG] pic.twitter.com/z7FA0Fdxdp

— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) February 8, 2024

The Golden State Warriors currently stand at 11th in the West with a 23-25 record and will be facing the Indiana Pacers tonight. Perhaps, if they manage to grab a win against Tyrese Haliburton and Co., it might call for bigger celebrations among the team members to commemorate Klay’s 34th birthday.

Klay Thompson has always celebrated his birthday with the Warriors in fun ways

The Warriors have always made sure to make every Klay Thompson birthday memorable. For Klay’s 28th birthday, the Warriors surprised the veteran with a unique birthday cake shaped like his beloved pet bulldog Rocco. The cake was baked by Pretty Please Bakeshop in San Francisco and was an absolute hit among players and staff alike.

Thompson is expected to play against the Indiana Pacers on his birthday and perhaps celebrate the night with a win in hand. Last season, it was quite unfortunate for Thompson to lose against the Portland Trail Blazers on his birthday. Though Thompson finished the night with 31 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 assists, he could not lead the Warriors to a win as Damian Lillard and Co. edged out the Dubs 125-122.

The post “Terrible Singers but I Still Love Em”: Klay Thompson’s 34th Birthday Celebration Involved Draymond Green’s ‘Melodious’ Tunes appeared first on The SportsRush.

Following his impressive outing, Klay Thompson had to face a bunch of reporters, asking him a series of questions regarding his future with the Golden State Warriors.

Klay Thompson tonight:

18 points
4 threes
3 rebounds
50/80/100%

And a game high +24 pic.twitter.com/GR13wlT9uK

— SplashBrosMuse (@SplashBrosMuse) February 8, 2024

Due to his awful performances in the past, Klay has had to deal with uncertainties regarding trade throughout the 2023-2024 campaign. Ahead of the 8^th February trade deadline, one of the reporters asked the sharpshooter about these rumors. Responding to the same, the four-time champion gave a cryptic answer.

“I don’t partake in NBA discourse. I think that’s such a waste of energy,” Thompson said.

Dub Nation will be concerned after hearing Thompson’s response to the trade rumors. However, the 34-year-old proceeded to admit that he wanted to be a part of the Warriors franchise for the long term.

“I assume that the preference remains to stay here even beyond the season,” A reporter stated.

Answering this, Thompson was crystal clear that his desires were to be associated with the franchise for a longer duration.

“That is correct. Good assessment,” Klay said.

Klay Thompson on the deadline rumors: “I don’t partake in NBA discourse.”

-On his desire to be with the Warriors long term: “That is correct. Good assessment.”

-On his belief in this team: “I see Steph Curry. I see Draymond. I go home and check our playoff record.” pic.twitter.com/tMe2IH5MCy

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) February 8, 2024

Klay Thompson may not have been living up to the expectations set for him, however, he’s been a valuable member of the Golden State Warriors for the entirety of his career. Ever since he was drafted into the NBA in 2011, Klay has donned the Warriors jersey, playing a crucial role in all four of the championship runs. It is unfair that he’s receiving such harsh criticism for his performance this season. Instead, the front office should reward Thompson for his loyalty with a contract extension in this upcoming offseason, even if it may not

Klay Thompson will become a free agent once the 2023-24 season concludes

Klay Thompson is in the last year of his five-year, $189.9 million max contract extension that he signed back in 2019. After the conclusion of the 2023-2024 campaign, the five-time All-Star will become a free agent.

As reports suggested, in hopes of extending their relationship, the Warriors front office offered Thompson a significant contract extension before this season began. According to NBA insider Shams Charania, the offer on the table (two-year, $48 million extension) was similar to what Draymond Green agreed to (four-year, $100 million) this past offseason. However, Thompson’s camp didn’t sign the deal.

“[Klay Thompson’s] future has been in question…I’m told that the Warriors offered a deal, 2 years in the range of 48 million dollars in an extension to Klay Thompson before the season, and now there’s no deal.”@ShamsCharania on the current state of the Golden State Warriors.… pic.twitter.com/B0T6rRMo5K

— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) December 13, 2023

This no-deal turned out to work in the franchise’s favor. With hopes of putting up an All-Star-type campaign, Thompson wanted to get rewarded with a more lucrative contract. However, he’s in the midst of the worst season since his rookie year.

With not a lot of teams showing any real interest in acquiring the two-time All-NBA player, the Golden State Warriors have an opportunity to re-sign Thompson at a price lower than what they initially offered.

The post “Don’t Partake in NBA Discourse”: Klay Thompson Discusses NBA Trade Deadline, Reveals Free Agency Desires appeared first on The SportsRush.