Jun 24, 2024, 10:25 PM ET
Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. reiterated his stance that he wants Klay Thompson back.
SAN FRANCISCO — As negotiations between the Golden State Warriors and Klay Thompson have stalled, and as the start of free agency looms, general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. reiterated his stance on the 12-year guard: ” “We want him back.”
The Warriors will face a series of roster decisions this summer, looking for ways to get into championship contention, or at least make the playoffs. But Thompson’s deal presents a different level of emotional challenge.
“I think being reasonable and rational, that’s always how I’m going to operate, but to say about a guy like Klay Thompson, who has meant so much to this franchise, to completely take away the emotion, I think it’s almost impossible,” Dunleavy said, speaking in his press conference prior to the NBA draft.
Under the new collective bargaining agreement rules, the Warriors and Thompson were allowed to begin negotiations as soon as the Finals ended. But there hasn’t been much communication between the two, sources revealed to ESPN.
The choice will ultimately be Thompson’s, but he plans to test the free agency market before making a decision, sources added to ESPN.
“I think it’s about what’s right that works for the franchise and the player and the role he plays,” Dunleavy said. “Taking all those things into account is the most important thing and that’s what’s happening and what we’re seeing… There’s probably varying degrees of what that value is, but it’s up to me to determine what the right amount is for our team.” .
Another decision the Warriors must make is surrounding veteran guard Chris Paul, who has a $30 million non-guaranteed contract waiting for him. The Warriors have until Friday to take him back or do without him.
“We’re reviewing everything,” Dunleavy said. “There are still a lot of options on the table in terms of keeping Chris, obviously there is a scenario where they will resign him… But I would say everything is open.”
Including Paul’s non-guaranteed contract and the $8 million Golden State guaranteed Kevon Looney on Monday, the Warriors have $175 million in salary.
Owner Joe Lacob has publicly expressed his desire to avoid the luxury tax, but Dunleavy said there are scenarios in which Golden State does not do so.
“It’s about being smart about it,” Dunleavy said. “It’s more like if there’s a point to beat the tax or one of the aprons, then we’ll do it. The most important thing for (Lacob) is to win. He’s proven that. You just have to be careful with the new rules.”
