In 2019, Klay Thompson almost became a Clipper

In what has been one of the toughest summers for Dub Nation, courtesy of Klay Thompson’s departure from the Bay Area. After an eleven-year successful association with GSW, the four-time champion decided to part ways with the organization and sign with the Dallas Mavericks. It marked the end of an era, especially the Splash Brothers chapter, that enthralled millions across the globe.

However, this wasn’t the first time that Klay had doubts over his future with the Joe Lacob franchise. According to the reports in 2019, the five-time All-Star was contemplating making a move had he not been offered a five-year $190M extension.

Klay had reportedly planned potential destinations, in case not offered the extension. The 6-foot-6 guard aspired to play for his hometown LA. To the surprise of many, the Clippers were his first choice over the Lakers, despite his paternal connections to the Purple and Gold.

Klay Thompson’s preferred LA choice was the Clippers

Had this materialized, Klay’s old man and NBA veteran Mychal Thompson would be pulling his hair. Sr. Thompson has time and again publicly expressed a desire to see his son don the purple and gold.

Surprisingly, the idea of playing alongside LeBron James, too, didn’t lure Klay. Nonetheless, all these hypotheticals were put to rest, as the Warriors offered a five-year $190M extension to their homegrown talent.

GSW showed true character as an organization, especially with Klay having suffered an ACL tear, keeping him out for an entire season. Tragedy struck once again when on the course of making a comeback, the 34-year-old ruptured his Achilles, resulting in him missing back-to-back seasons. Nevertheless, the Warriors management continued to be by their player’s side in this moment of crisis.

Klay Thompson to make his Mavericks debut this season

It won’t be wrong to say that Klay has struggled to find his rhythm after his catastrophic injuries. Yet, the former All-NBA player is a valuable addition to any team. Playing for the Warriors after winning his 4th ring in 2022, the veteran guard visibly felt out of place and dissatisfied.

Therefore, come free agency, Klay signed with the Mavericks even though the Warriors offered him a better deal. Fans remain hopeful that Captain Klay will end his career in the Bay Area when it’s all said and done.

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