4 reasons re-signing Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson is a bad idea
Force Kevon Looney’s hand
Potentially a prized free agent after this past postseason run, Kevon Looney will get paid this offseason. It’s unlikely that a team will toss eight figures at him, but they’ll certainly offer more than Golden State can if they max their two stars.
I’m sure Looney to some extent wants to stay in the Bay, but when another team is willing to pay triple your salary, you go. It’s that simple. Currently making just over $1.5 million, Looney will easily get $6 million from some organization.
Looney had an impressive third season, but it was the playoffs where he showcased his value. Looney averaged just 7.1 points and 4.5 rebounds per game. Not elite is it? Well, he also averaged 69% shooting and 2.0 offensive boards per game and did it all in just over 20 minutes per game.
Players have been paid for far less. At just 23-years-old, Looney is starring a rather large and high-year contract in the face if he wants it. However, if he stays in Golden State, they may only be able to offer him the MLE, which should be around $5 million or a bit more.
He’s worth more, and if they attempt to sign both KD and Klay, they’ll be opening the door for Looney to leave.
The Warriors will likely retain their two stars, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right move.