By james art Klay Thompson is only making about $15 million this season as he tries to turn over a new leaf by joining the Dallas Mavericks from the dynastic Golden State Warriors, with whom he won four NBA titles.
Credit: Getty Images
Some see it as a noble move by Thompson, who is trying to extend his career after a dismal end to his 2023-24 stint with the Warriors.
For former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, that amount doesn’t match what Thompson can bring to the table. He thinks the other half of the Splash Brothers should get paid more.
Arenas wasn’t just talking about the first three games when Thompson set records for the Mavs. It goes back to last season.
“I feel bad for Clay because last year he shot 38 percent from the three-point line, 43 from the field, 92 from the free throw line, averaged 18 points,” he said on his own podcast.
“If you take his name out of his stats, they all line up. “Give it to me.” 30, 40 million per year. Buddy Hield is playing very well right now. If you had Clay’s stats, you’d give that guy 120 (million). When you really want to do what he does, no matter what, you watch what you want to watch.
Klay Thompson’s contract has been compared to other teams
Thompson actually had offers from other teams that could reach around $40 million, matching his previous contract. Among those who followed suit was the Los Angeles Lakers, with the blessing of team superstar and former rival LeBron James.
However, Thompson’s desire to win a 5th ring weighs more heavily. Forbes reported that the 5-time All-Star decided to join Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving based on that mindset. The Mavs reached the NBA Finals last season, but lost to the Boston Celtics.
In his first game back, he spoke highly of his bond with the guard duo, saying it felt like he was back in the 2016-2018 Warriors era when he was still playing with Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry.
“Probably when I shared the court with Steph and K.D. That’s how powerful this offense can be, guys, because you have two incredible shooters who were also shooting creators, throwing the ball to Klay wide open in wide open positions,” he said, as quoted by courtside reporter Stephanie Reddy.
For the latest basketball content
Follow us @HardwoodHeroics for the latest and breaking news on the NBA, college basketball and more. Stay up to date by reading more of our NBA articles by clicking here and college basketball by clicking here!