Klay Thompson not the only contract storyline for Golden State Warriors

Contract negotiations between the Golden State Warriors and Klay Thompson have made headlines over recent days, with The Athletic’s Shams Charania reporting that they’re at a “dead point”.

But while Thompson’s contractual future will be a major talking point as the season progresses, he’s not the only long-time franchise member who requiring a new deal.

Klay Thompson isn’t the only big name at the Golden State Warriors to be on an expiring deal, with Steve Kerr’s contract also set to be a storyline throughout the season.

Entering his 10th year as head coach, Steve Kerr can expect a significant payday should he and the franchise wish to extend their marriage beyond this season. However, there’s been no deal forthcoming between the sides prior to the season’s commencement.

Asked about his contract situation in the lead up to Tuesday night’s season opener against the Phoenix Suns, Kerr was coy in providing details on a potential new deal.

"“I just prefer not to talk about contract stuff…We have a great relationship – I do with the front office and Joe. I’m not worried about it all. There’s no deadline. We could do a contract extension on the last day of the season but I’m not going to get into any details,” Kerr said."

According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Kerr is making around $8 million on his current contract. Based on recent deals handed out to NBA head coaches, Golden State will need to fork out significantly more to retain the 58-year-old.

The Detroit Pistons lured Monty Williams into becoming their new head coach with a six-year, $78.5 million deal, while the San Antonio Spurs extended legendary figure Gregg Popovich on a five-year contract worth in excess of $80 million.

While Kerr’s contract status may take a backseat to that of Thompson, it will nonetheless be a storyline that festers the long the season goes. We saw that take place with former General Manager Bob Myers last season, to the point where he eventually chose to move on from the franchise.

Kerr and the Warriors got off to a disappointing on Tuesday, falling 108-104 to the Suns despite holding an eight-point lead early in the fourth-quarter.