Nothing lasts forever – not even in the NBA. An NBA contract doesn’t last forever. An NBA dynasty doesn’t, either. All things come to an end – even good things. Is that a reality that the Golden State Warriors will soon be coming to terms with?
We’ll see. It’s apparently been difficult for them to come to terms with Klay Thompson on a contract extension. Thompson has been a staple of the Warriors’ recent dynastic run. Saying goodbye to him would be difficult.
At the same time, it may have to be done. If these two sides can’t agree on an extension, the Warriors should move Thompson before he walks as a free agent next summer.
What should the Warriors seek in exchange for Thompson? Well, any team acquiring him is going to be in win-now mode. At the same time, if the Warriors were willing to attach some draft capital to his deal, they could improve their 2023-24 outlook.
Could they send him to the Sacramento Kings?
NBA Trade Proposal — Sacramento Kings Land Klay Thompson
Golden State Warriors Receive: F Harrison Barnes, G/F Kevin Huerter, F Trey Lyles
Sacramento Kings Receive: G/F Klay Thompson, 2026 First-Round Pick (GSW)
Sometimes, good things come to an end. Other times, people are glad to see a situation conclude. Recently, the Kings were glad to see something end.
We’re talking about their NBA record 16-year playoff drought. Finally, the Kings punched a ticket to the postseason. This fanbase celebrated – and rightfully so.
We can’t stress this enough – it was the longest postseason drought in NBA history. The Kings were happy to just appear in the playoffs last season. Will that be true this year? We don’t think so.
NBA TRADES & RUMORS: Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors, Sacramento Kings Updates
The Kings accomplished their goal of making the playoffs. Now, they need to set a new goal to escape the first round.
Does this deal help them accomplish that goal?
Why The Sacramento Kings Do This Deal
It depends on what the Kings do with this pick. If they want to improve, they should use it to acquire another impact player this season.
Otherwise, they’re giving up too much depth here for us to say that they’ve improved. With that said, most of that depth is expendable. Keegan Murray is edging Barnes out of town. Thompson is an immediate replacement for Huerter – at this stage in each man’s career, they’re roughly equal.
Losing Lyles matters, but if the Kings can use this pick to improve their roster further, it should be worth the cost. Finally, there are intangibles that Thompson brings to this team. He has championship experience.
NBA TRADES & RUMORS: Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors, Sacramento Kings Updates
Thompson is the type of veteran who could help the Kings take a step forward. Should the Warriors really part with their longtime off-guard?
Why The Golden State Warriors Do This Deal
The Warriors can’t afford to be sentimental. Sure, saying goodbye to Thompson would be difficult. Bring him back on a one-day contract when it’s time for him to retire.
For now, the Warriors have to avoid losing Thompson without receiving anything of value in return. Here, they’re getting plenty of value. Reuniting with Barnes doesn’t simply soften the emotional blow of losing Thompson. He’s still a productive 3-and-D wing.
Still, the main prize here for the Warriors is Huerter. He’s not only a near-perfect replacement for Thompson. He’s also been on a team-friendly deal for several years. The Warriors are approaching a financial crunch, so that’s significant for them.
NBA TRADES & RUMORS: Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors, Sacramento Kings Updates
All told, that’s worth the price of an unprotected first – even if it means ending their relationship with Thompson.
