The Golden State Warriors have started the 2023-24 season with a 6-6 record after 12 games. The good news is that Stephen Curry is looking as good as ever this season, averaging 30.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game on 48.8% shooting. Everyone else on the squad, including 5x All-Star Klay Thompson, has been nothing short of disappointing. While the Dubs have not been involved in the Zach LaVine trade speculations this season, their problems out of the gate may compel them to act.
A straight-up swap between LaVine and Thompson makes sense for the Warriors because they both make nearly the same contract of $40+ million per year. The only difference is that Klay, a 33-year-old veteran coming off several injuries, is in decline. Leaving history aside, trading Thompson for a player who can consistently produce offensively may be the best option for the Warriors to maximize their chances with Curry.
Even yet, trading Thompson would be a difficult task for a team that has invested so much in his career. After so much success together, the Warriors will always put their trust in Klay when the pressure is on, and the relationship he has formed with the club and the city has rendered him practically untouchable in trade talks.
LaVine and Curry Form a Potent Backcourt
Steph Cury is still one of the top players in the game at 35 years old, and his presence has nearly single-handedly kept the Warriors alive since winning the title in 2022. Curry hasn’t had the kind of help he’s used to this season. None of Klay, Draymond, or Wiggins have reached 20 points this season, leaving Steph to compete with Dario Saric as the team’s second-best player.
Zach LaVine might be the answer this squad is looking for. While he is a one-dimensional player, his offensive ability would provide the Warriors with a more consistent scoring threat on the perimeter. LaVine’s athleticism as a three-level scorer who can also play above the rim would complement Steph’s long-distance shooting, which opens things up for everyone on the floor. Obviously, such a scenario is unlikely for the time being, but things could become desperate if Klay does not wake up soon.
Klay’s Future Is In Doubt
Klay Thompson is set to become unrestricted free agent this summer after failing to reach an agreement with the Warriors on a contract extension. While experts predicted that he would re-sign with Golden State, that might change if the two sides cannot agree on his financial worth. Whether they like it or not, the Warriors must be cautious with their spending.
If they pay their players solely on previous achievements, it could drastically undermine their prospects of winning right now. However, with Stephen Curry still in MVP form, the moment to go all-in is now, and the Warriors may not have the luxury of waiting for Thompson to return to form. In any case, we’ll find out soon enough how crucial Klay Thompson’s future is to the Warriors.