NBA trade news: Klay Thompson must make big decision on Golden State Warriors future

Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson has moved swiftly to end speculation he could be set for a shock departure from the Bay Area by reiterating his desire to finish his career with the team that drafted him in 2011.

The 28-year-old is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer but suggested he would be willing to take a pay cut in order to remain with the Warriors.

LeBron James’ Los Angeles Lakers had been tipped as one a potential landing spot for Thompson but with his latest comments, a trade appears highly unlikely – and free agency seems equally improbable.

Golden State general manager Bob Myers is facing an increasingly tough task in order to keep the All-Star core of Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson together.

Speaking on ESPN yesterday, former New York Daily News reporter Frank Isola stated Thompson will be forced to “sacrifice” once again in order to keep the team together, but suggested the four-time All-Star would be willing to do so.

“I don’t think it will [be a problem] – and remember, Kevin Durant has done that,” Isola said, when asked if a pay cut could cause friction with the team.

“This summer is going to be a big one. July 1 2019, what do they do with Kevin Durant? But they are opening up that new building [Chase Center].

“You might go 20, 30 years waiting for a chance to have a team like this. This is a once in lifetime kind of team, that’s why the Warriors have to do everything they can to keep this group together and I think Klay Thompson, all throughout his time there, has sacrificed.

“Maybe he’d be willing to sacrifice a little money to keep it going…”

Thompson, who averaged 20 points in 34 minutes of game time last season, has been praised for his low-maintenance approach to the game, flourishing in the shadow of former MVP’s Durant and Curry.

And Isola claimed he is unsung hero of the reigning champions’ roster, shielding Curry from defending the opposition’s best players while providing invaluable offensive production.

“Klay Thompson, to me, that has been his run in Golden State, that he sacrifices,” Isola continued.

“Whenever they’re playing a top back court, he always defends the better guards.

“He’s always been sacrificed for Steph Curry. Look at some of the games he’s had – when they lost to Oklahoma City, he saved them. He’s had some remarkable games during this run.”