5 Moves Warriors should make after acquiring Chris Paul

2. Extend Klay at discount

Klay Thompson is entering the final season of his contract where he is set to make $43.2 million. It is a massive price tag, but worth every penny after he helped them win four championships. The 33-year-old is extension-eligible and the Warriors would love to work out a new deal, but only if Klay is willing to take less moving forward.

Stephen Curry is locked in through 2026 at $50-plus million per season. The Dubs will likely have one season with Chris Paul at $30.8 million before he heads elsewhere in 2024. Andrew Wiggins is also locked in until at least 2026, and Golden State needs his defense and shot-making. They must figure out new deals for Draymond Green and Klay if they are going to keep their title window open.

Would Thompson be willing to accept $30 million per season? That seems like a fair compromise that keeps him in Golden State into his upper-30s. Teams with three superstars making massive money will soon be a thing of the past, which is why Klay taking less is so important for the Warriors’ future.

Golden State must get under the second tax apron at some point, so they can improve their roster. The Warriors have a chance to win another title in 2024, but things will get interesting after that. Even their championship odds next season hinge on bringing back the heart and soul of their team.