Klay Thompson’s Next Team, The NBA world is bracing for the end of an era as Klay Thompson, one of the greatest shooters in league history, enters free agency for the first time in his 13-year career. After helping build the Golden State Warriors dynasty, Thompson now faces a career-altering decision that could reshape multiple franchises.
In this exclusive 1,500-word breakdown, we analyze:
✔ The real reasons behind Klay’s Warriors exit rumors
✔ Orlando Magic as the surprising frontrunner
✔ Dark horse teams no one’s talking about
✔ Financial implications of each possible move
✔ How this decision impacts Steph Curry’s legacy
The End of an Era: Why Klay Might Leave Golden State
After four championships, five All-Star appearances, and 2,481 three-pointers (4th all-time), Thompson’s Warriors future has never been more uncertain. Here’s why:
Contract Breakdown
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Warriors’ last offer: 2 years, $48 million
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Magic’s expected offer: 4 years, $120 million+
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Current salary: $43.2 million (expiring)
On-Court Concerns
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Defensive decline (-2.3 defensive rating since 2022)
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Inconsistent shooting (38.7% 3PT in 2023-24, down from career 41.5%)
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Rotation changes (moved to bench in February)
Behind-the-Scenes Tensions
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Frustration with reduced role (per NBA NewsZ sources)
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Draymond Green’s extension taking priority
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Warriors’ youth movement (Podziemski, Kuminga)
“Klay wants to be valued, not just as a legacy piece but as a difference-maker. Orlando offers that.” – Anonymous Eastern Conference GM
Option 1: Orlando Magic – The Surprising Frontrunner
Why It Makes Sense:
✅ Desperate need for shooting (Magic ranked 24th in 3PM)
✅ Cap space galore ($60M+ available)
✅ Chance to mentor Banchero/Wagner
✅ Florida’s no-state-income-tax advantage
Projected Magic Lineup:
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PG: Jalen Suggs
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SG: Klay Thompson
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SF: Franz Wagner
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PF: Paolo Banchero
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C: Wendell Carter Jr.
This transforms Orlando from playoff team to legitimate Eastern Conference threat.
Option 2: Staying With the Warriors
Why It Could Still Happen:
✅ Loyalty to Steph/Draymond
✅ Chase Center farewell tour potential
✅ Steve Kerr’s public pleas to keep core intact
Roadblocks:
❌ 400M+luxurytaxbilliftheymaxKlay∗∗❌∗∗JonathanKuminga′semergence∗∗❌∗∗ChrisPaul′s30M non-guaranteed contract decision
Dark Horse Contenders
1. Philadelphia 76ers
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If they strike out on Paul George
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Perfect spacing for Embiid/Maxey
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Could offer 3 years, $90M
2. Los Angeles Lakers
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LeBron’s “Veteran Shooters Wanted” campaign
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California lifestyle familiarity
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Potential sign-and-trade (D’Angelo Russell?)
3. Oklahoma City Thunder
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Young core needs veteran presence
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$30M+ in cap space
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Chet Holmgren’s development accelerator
Financial Implications Breakdown
| Team | Possible Contract | After-Tax Earnings* |
|---|---|---|
| Warriors | 2yr/$48M | ~$24M |
| Magic | 4yr/$120M | ~$72M |
| 76ers | 3yr/$90M | ~$45M |
| Lakers | 3yr/$75M | ~$37.5M |
*Estimated after Florida/California tax differences
How This Impacts the NBA Landscape
If Klay Leaves:
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Warriors officially end dynasty era
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Magic become top-4 East team
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Steph Curry’s final championship window slams shut
If Klay Stays:
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Warriors run it back one last time
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Luxury tax nightmare continues ($500M+ payroll)
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Young players’ development stunted
Latest Insider Intel (June 2024)
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Magic preparing “Godfather offer” (4yr/$125M)
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Warriors refusing to go beyond 2 years
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LeBron personally recruiting for Lakers
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Decision expected before July 4
Read More: NBA Summer League 2024: Top Rookies to Watch and Surprise Standouts
Final Prediction
Klay Thompson’s Next Team, After evaluating all factors:
Klay Thompson signs 4-year, $118M deal with Orlando Magic
“The combination of financial security, a bigger role, and Florida’s tax benefits will ultimately pull Klay away from the Bay Area. While emotionally painful, this gives him a chance to redefine his legacy beyond the Warriors’ shadow.” – NBA NewsZ Senior Analyst
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