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Golden State Warriors: Positive news for Klay Thompson amid contract storyline

By Peter O'Keefe

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 13: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors before a preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on October 13, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 13: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors before a preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on October 13, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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Veteran shooting-guard Klay Thompson has confirmed he plans to play back-to-backs this season, starting with Sunday and Monday’s games against the Houston Rockets and New Orleans Pelicans.

After suffering two devastating leg injuries in 2019 and 2020, Thompson went a large period until late last season where he was managed on one side of a back-to-back. While the 33-year-old will undoubtedly have his rests at times, increased availability will be important for Thompson and the Warriors this season.

Entering the final year of his contract, five-time All-Star Klay Thompson says he’s going to ‘savor’ this season with the Golden State Warriors.

Thompson played 69 games last regular season, averaging 21.9 points and shooting 41.2% from three-point range. With increased availability on back-to-backs, the four-time champion will be hoping to make at least 70 appearances for the first time since the 2018-19 season.

After a rough 6-18 shooting outing against the Phoenix Suns in the season opener on Tuesday night, Thompson was more efficient in recording 18 points, three rebounds and four assists on 7-12 shooting in the Warriors win over the Sacramento Kings on Friday.

Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson makes a layup against the Sacramento Kings on Friday night. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson makes a layup against the Sacramento Kings on Friday night. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Thompson has entered the final season of a five-year deal where he’ll make $43.2 million. Eligible for an extension at any point through the season, his contract status will continue to be a major talking point.

Speaking before Friday’s game against the Kings, a reflective Thompson is simply trying to soak up what could theoretically be his final season at the franchise.

"“You never know what’s going to happen, so yea, I’m gonna savor this as much as I can. Especially this uniform. I was here before it was sweet. Before 4 championships,” Thompson said."

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For now, Thompson’s availability on back-to-backs is another boost for Golden State who are set to regain veteran forward Draymond Green for the matchup against the Rockets at Toyoto Center on Sunday.

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