Klay Thompson 'scorned' by Golden State Warriors contract offer as NBA star snubs $20M to aim for free agency

GOLDEN State Warriors superstar Klay Thompson has reportedly entered free agency after feeling undervalued in contract negotiations.

The four-time NBA champion was drafted by Golden State in 2011 and has never played for another franchise.

Klay Thompson set to become a free agentCredit: Getty

The four-time NBA champion has never played for another franchise.Credit: Getty

But an insider told NBA TV that Thompson, 34, was ready to walk away after being offered $20 million a year.

“I know firsthand that Klay (Thompson) is disappointed with the way the negotiations have gone so far,” they said.

“Given that he’s looking elsewhere, I believe the Warriors are probably offering him a $20 million annual contract.

“Is he ready to give up because he feels disrespected? It sure looks like he is.”

Golden State missed the playoffs for the first time since 2021 last season.

Afterward, Thompson praised his teammates for offering support ahead of contract negotiations.

“It means a lot,” Thompson told ESPN.

“I mean, we’ve been through the highest highs and the lowest lows.

“Whether it’s losing a championship, winning a championship, missing the playoffs, we’ve been through it all together, so it means a lot.

“I’m grateful to have been able to spend time with them. It was truly historic.”

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ESPN reports that Thompson will have discussions with the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers.

Fellow Warriors guard Chris Paul also hit free agency.

The 12-time All-Star was cut Sunday after Golden State failed to find a trade partner due to his $30 million contract.

Paul, 39, is expected to join the San Antonio Spurs on a one-year deal worth $11 million.

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The new television rights deal promises to be a huge win for NBA players.

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“He is very eager and motivated by this opportunity to return to a starting role,” an insider said on NBA TV.

“He still believes he’s a starter. He still believes he can play at an elite level.

“And he’s excited about the opportunity to team up with Wembanyama.

“You’re going to have a really inspired and motivated Chris Paul at this point in his career.

“He wants to show and prove to people that he still has it.”

LeBron James opted out of his contract to sign a new deal with the Los Angeles Lakers.