After both Klay Thompson and Kevin Durant suffered unfortunate and serious leg injuries in the waning games of the 2019 NBA Finals, this not only significantly plummeted their chances at securing the title, but it also muddies up an important offseason in the Bay Area.
Both Thompson and Durant can become free agents this summer, and while both are expected to be brought back, there’s something to be said about having to wait a whole season in essence after maxing out two key players. Still, it appears the Warriors and Thompson have no qualms about the two sides reaching a deal this summer. In fact, Thompson’s father, former Laker Mychal Thompson, told SF Chronicle’s Connor Letourneau that there’s no question Klay will be re-signing with the Warriors.
Just spoke with Klay Thompson's father, Mychal, who said there's "no question" Klay will re-sign with the Warriors. Golden State is expected to still offer him a full five-year maximum deal.
— Connor Letourneau (@Con_Chron) June 14, 2019
While this is an unfortunate situation all-around, there was little doubt Klay Thompson would still be a Warrior going into next season despite the torn ACL. Thompson has laid it all out on the line for that franchise during their dynasty and is one of the premier offensive threats at shooting guard and an obviously perfect complement to backcourt partner Stephen Curry.
While Thompson won’t be eligible for the super-max extension after missing out on an All-NBA team this season, Thompson will still get a hefty paycheck to stay in the bay for the next five seasons. Now with Thompson expected to be maxed, the attention now turns towards KD.
Durant’s free agency has caused numerous rumors to fly but all indications also point towards Golden State paying him. Maxing both players who will be out of the lineup for a season will cap them going into next season. With Stephen Curry and Draymond Green leading the charge, the Warriors are certainly still a playoff team with championship aspirations, but far from the favorites in the West. It’ll be one of the most intriguing storylines of the offseason as the NBA world waits for the Warriors’ decision with their two fallen superstars.
