Kobe Bryant showing some respect to young sharp shooter Klay Thompson could help the Golden State Warriors guard negotiate for a new contract.
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It wasn’t too long ago that Klay Thompson’s agent, who is in the middle of negotiating a new contract for his client, called him a better two-way shooting guard than Kobe Bryant. That created a bit of a stir on the internet and a lot of discussion as to whether or not it was true.
Bryant, forever the fierce competitor, gave the young sharp shooter some love after an impressive performance when the two teams played in the preseason, saying “he has the whole package” according to Diamond Leung of the San Jose Mercury News
Thompson and his agent could use those statements from Kobe when negotiating a new contract. Thompson is eligible for an extension and the Warriors, but as Leung writes, he isn’t distracted by his possible free agency.
"“I hope it gets resolved, but it’s not going to hold me back,” Thompson said. “I’m still going to go out and do what I do."
"“Life is great.”…“In typical Klay fashion, he’s like, ‘Oh, no, I’m fine,’ ” [Steve] Kerr said. “I don’t think he’s too concerned. He knows something really good is going to happen one way or the other.”"
Life sure is great for Thompson, especially when the Warriors expressed how much they value Thompson after reportedly refusing to trade him for Kevin Love.
Considering he hasn’t yet peaked, he may be best suited gambling on hitting free agency. After all, the ball is in his court. After spending his first season with new guard-oriented coach Kerr, Thompson could see a leap in production.
The Warriors also cannot afford to let him walk after declining to move him for Love. That would be a disaster, and something Thompson can use in negotiations. If he does sign an extension, he may aim at signing a two-year deal in order to re-enter free agency when the NBA’s new TV deal bumps up the salary cap.
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