Klay Thompson is in the final few months of his current $189M deal. He will become an unrestricted free agent in the summer. The veteran sharpshooter has recently noted how he would prefer to remain with the Golden State Warriors but will be prioritizing his mental health in his decision-making.
One team that could make sense for Thompson is the New York Knicks. When the Warriors visited New York earlier this season, Thompson shared his love for the city on his Instagram story.
The Knicks are 14th in three-point shot conversion as a team this season, shooting 36.8%. Thompson’s ability to score off the catch and to operate on the move would elevate the spacing within Tom Thibodeau’s team. Furthermore, Thompson has a reputation for being a reliable defender when guarding bigger opponents, which would give Thibodeau some additional flexibility within his defensive rotations.
Most importantly, though, Thompson would bring a championship mentality to a roster that’s aiming to make noise in the Eastern Conference. He would instantly position himself as a locker room leader. He could thrive as both a starter and potentially as a sixth man, where he has shone at times this season.
In recent years, the Knicks have struck out when taking swings at scoring talent. Both Kemba Walker and Evan Fournier were disastrous moves for the franchise. Thompson would be more of a sure thing. Even though he’s been mired in inconsistency this season, he’s still been an elite shooter.
Thompson has played 75 games this season. He’s shooting 38.6% from three-point range and 43.3% from the field. He would be the ideal veteran addition to New York’s roster. The question is whether they can negotiate a contract with Thompson that makes sense for both parties. Nevertheless, if his tenure in the Bay Area is ending, the Knicks could offer an opportunity to stay in a big market and continue contending for championships. And it would be in a city he recently declared his love for.
New York would be wise to kick the tires on Thompson’s interest in the summer.
