Klay Thompson might not be playing like he did prior to injuries, but he is doing a lot better than his inconsistent start to the season. What was supposed to be a championship run turned out to be the team struggling for a playoff position. Of course, Thompson is only a part of what led to a dismal season, but there is no doubt that his contribution would have made a difference.

Under such circumstances, Steve Kerr considered it prudent to make some serious changes. And that included the shocking relegation of Klay to the bench. Even though he has made peace with the major change, his wish to retire as a Warrior is still there. Nevertheless, despite all that is happening around him, Klay has found ways to cope with it. And the Hall of Famer Larry Bird has something to do with it.

At the recent NBA All-Tech Summit, Larry Bird revealed that his favorite player was Klay. The 3x champion also said that he was in awe of the forward guard’s “shooting and scoring ability”. To receive such praise from one of the greatest basketball players is no easy feat.

When Sam Amick of The Athletic asked what he thought about the same, Klay said that he had saved that video on his phone. The 5x All-Star also revealed that he put Bird’s compliment “in the same category as when Kobe called me and Steph great players with that killer instinct.” 

Klay might have days when he doubts himself or considers just dropping everything. But one look at Bird’s video or thinking about Kobe and his fellow Splash Brother is enough to bring the fight back in him.

“Refreshed” Klay Thompson is “Grateful” Despite Reduced Role on Warriors

Will Klay Thompson remain a Warrior?

Thompson has been in negotiations with the Warriors’ owner Joe Lacob and other stakeholders since last off-season for an extension. He is set to become a free agent at the end of the 2023-24 season and with him clarifying his stand on several occasions, these conversations haven’t been much fruitful. According to the recent update by the Warriors’ official X account, their relationship has “suffered some strain over contract negotiations.”

Lacob, for his part, seems to be confident that an agreement can be reached that will satisfy both parties. Back in October 2023, he expressed these sentiments in the “Warriors Pregame Live”. “We have had some discussions and look, these things have to take their course,” he had said. Lacob further clarified that they were more than willing to allow Klay to stay with the Dubs if that is what he wanted.

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Even with such assurances, it’s safe to assume that Klay Thompson’s future with his beloved squad is not guaranteed.

Klay Thompson’s Situation Brings Back Bitter Memories of Celtics Teammate for Paul Pierce: “Motherf***er Went to Miami”