"He wants to be here": Joe Lacob believes Klay Thompson extension is nearly done despite wild rumors
There have been rumors that Klay Thompson will enter free agency because he's far from signing a contract extension with the Golden State Warriors. However, Warriors owner Joe Lacob debunked those rumors by saying that a Thompson extension is close to being done.
In a pregame interview with NBC Sports Bay Area ahead of the Warriors' opening night matchup against the Phoenix Suns, Lacob was asked about Klay's contract situation. The 67-year-old billionaire explained that the four-time NBA champion wants to stay with the Warriors and they rarely miss things of that nature.
"We've had some discussions," Lacob said. "These things have to take their course. He has the right to do ever what he wants to do. If he wants to go free agency, that's his right, he's earned it. If he wants to be a Warrior for life, he has gonna have that opportunity. We certainly want him to.
"I think he wants to be here. We want him to be here. We treat our people fairly. ... Things will get done, just give us some time. You don't usually see us not get things done."
Klay Thompson has been with the Golden State Warriors since he entered the league in 2011. Thompson has won four NBA championships during his tenure with the team and formed one of the greatest duos ever with Steph Curry. He will also go down as one of the greatest players in franchise history.
Thompson enters the season in the final year of his current contract. He's certainly looking for the final big payday of his career, something that he deserves after coming back from two career-threatening injuries in 2019 and 2020.
In addition to Thompson, Joe Lacob also shared an update on Steve Kerr's contract extension. The two sides are also negotiating and Lacob feels it's close to being finalized.
Also Read: Charles Barkley before & after pictures take over internet after stunning weight loss transformation
Klay Thompson rumored to enter free agency next summer
As mentioned above, Klay Thompson is playing in the final year of his contract with the Golden State Warriors. Thompson has until the final day of the season to sign an extension, but the latest rumors suggest that he'll be entering free agency.
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Thompson and the Warriors' front office are far apart in money. The 33-year-old sharpshooter will earn $43.2 million this season, which is something he won't get in the free agent market. His age and injury history will make his price lower.
The Warriors could be hoping to get him on a team-friendly deal like what Draymond Green signed in the offseason. Green took a four-year, $100 million contract from the Warriors with a player option in the final season.
Also Read: "You're making $30, $40 million" - Charles Barkley berates NBA superstars for practicing load management