Theo Pinson sends message to Klay Thompson ahead of Free Agency

Tony Nguyen | Golden State Warriors
June 29, 2024

Klay Thompson will hit unrestricted free agency on Sunday (June 30.) The veteran sharpshooter is reportedly drawing interest from multiple teams around the NBA, with the Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets reportedly emerging as suitors in recent days. Thompson is yet to begin negotiating a new contract with the Golden State Warriors.

During a recent episode of the “Tidal League” podcast, former NBA star Theo Pinson shared a message with Thompson. He told the four-time NBA champion to leave the Warriors and find a franchise that still sees the value he brings to a rotation.

“I’m just being honest,” Pinson said. “The time has ran out. Klay Thompson, you feel like you’re still valuable. Leave. Point blank, period. There are other teams that are like ‘we want you here. We need you here.’ And when you feel that, you will play better…Go somewhere else and get your money.”

Thompson’s defensive upside has waned since his back-to-back knee injuries. However, he’s still an elite shooter; both off the catch and via movement. He’s also capable of guarding multiple positions, especially if guarding up onto forwards and bigs.

The Warriors are facing an increasing battle to keep Thompson on the roster. He is reportedly set to explore his market. However, he has previously shared his desire to retire as a one-team player. As such, Thompson’s future is far from clear. Still, it’s looking increasingly likely he will be suiting up for a new team next season.

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