“We want Klay back!” – Stephen Curry tried to help now departed Splash Bro’s contract negotiations with Warriors

Klay Thompson became the first key member of the Golden State Warriors' championship-winning core to leave.

“We want Klay back!” – Stephen Curry tried to help now departed Splash Bro’s contract negotiations with Warriors

Steph Curry and Klay Thompson

Steph Curry found himself in a delicate situation when Klay Thompson’s contract negotiations with the Warriors began. Curry emphasized that he wanted Thompson back, but didn’t dictate specific contract numbers or terms.

In an exclusive interview with The Athletic’s Sam Amick, Curry said he had a conversation with the Warriors’ management, despite Thompson’s request to not pressure the front office, where he expressed his desire to have open communication about the negotiations. He believed that both the Dubs and Klay Thompson needed to find a middle ground.

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We want Klay back. I’m not going to tell them what number it is. I’m not going to tell them. Again, part of the way we operate is that there’s always conversation.
Steph Curry said to Sam Amick of the Athletic

Furthermore, he hoped for a “two-way street conversation” that would address the needs of both parties. However, despite Curry’s efforts, the contract talks did not result in a mutual agreement.

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Thompson eventually signed a three-year, $50 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks as part of a complex sign-and-trade deal which involved six teams. This marked the end of an era for the Warriors, as Thompson became the first key member of their championship-winning core to leave.

Steph Curry reflects on Warriors’ dynasty, Klay Thompson’s departure 

The Golden State Warriors’ iconic championship run with Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green came to an end with Thompson’s departure to the Dallas Mavericks in free agency. The Warriors’ dynasty delivered four titles and six NBA Finals appearances in 13 years, a feat Curry believes won’t be replicated again. 

I mean, obviously defining a dynasty can take on a lot of different looks… People thought this was over in 2019, but 2022 was an amazing championship because we defied the odds...That's 11 of almost 12 years of championship relevancy built around a certain core. I don't think [it will be replicated] just because it's very hard to keep things together in this league.
Steph Curry said in an exclusive interview with ESPN

Curry reflected on the dynasty’s legacy, acknowledging that it defied odds and expectations, particularly in their 2022 championship season. He expressed admiration for the core’s longevity and adaptability.

Regarding Thompson’s departure, Curry wishes his former teammate happiness and joy in basketball again, after a tumultuous season that saw Thompson relegated to the bench. 

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