Golden State legend Klay Thompson has revealed whether his new role has sped up his retirement timeline.
The 34-year-old was asked if his recent demotion to the bench changes his desire to re-sign with the Warriors over the summer, and he revealed a telling detail about his time in the NBA.
“Not really,” Thompson told The Athletic. “I mean, you’ve still got to examine all of your options, but I would love to be a Warrior for life. Whatever happens though, I’ve got a few more years to play this game, so I’m gonna enjoy every second. I realize that I see light at the end of the tunnel, (and) I’m not sure if I want to play until I’m 40, man. That sounds really exhausting.”
As it stands, Klay is the only core member of the Warriors who hasn’t been shored up for beyond this season.
Just this week, head coach Steve Kerr signed a two-year $35 million extension, while Steph Curry and Draymond Green are locked in until at least the 2025-26 season.
Thompson is not the player he once was, which is completely fair considering the hell he had to endure going through back-to-back ACL and Achilles injuries.
He used to let that bother him, but he has changed his outlook for the better.
“I’m doing great,” Thompson said. “I think I’m doing much better in not putting my identity in my performance, especially after 11 years of NBA basketball. That alone is an incredible accomplishment. And to be out here and still be playing and having fun and being healthy, that trumps any big shooting night or 50-40-90 milestones.
“It took me a long time to realize that, but once I finally did, my game has been much better. I’ve been so much more at ease and realizing that, ‘Gosh, this is such a cool opportunity for me.’ Guys would kill to be in my shoes, even with all the injuries and all that. The heights we’ve reached are rare, so it’s been awesome.”
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