Option 1 – Poole replaces Thompson in two seasons
There were fans on social media asking for this last season, believing that Poole had surpassed Thompson as an NBA player. The latter reinstated his value in crucial moments in the Finals, but regardless, there’s clear signs that Poole will become an unequivocally better player soon rather than later.
Even if he is a better player though, Thompson’s equity with the franchise, and his historic partnership with Curry, means it’d be difficult for him and Poole to switch roles. The next issue is that Thompson is making $84 million over the next two seasons, a ridiculous amount if you’re going to place him in a bench position.
Thompson will be nearly 35 by the start of his next contract. Therefore, by that point at the start of the 2024-25 season, he’ll likely be on heavily reduced money, and more importantly, may be willing to step aside for Poole to assume a starting role. Will the young star be willing to wait until then?