The Golden State Warriors could still be competing in the playoffs if Stephen Curry had avoided a Grade 1 hamstring strain against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference semifinals.
However, the organization has no choice but to prepare for the 2025-26 campaign after falling to the Timberwolves in a five-game second-round series.
In Empire Sports Media’s Davin McFarland’s opinion, the Warriors could reunite Curry with a washed-up four-time NBA champion guard this summer and make significant noise next season.
"The Warriors and their fans have never stopped loving Klay Thompson, evidenced by the franchise’s heartfelt response to the passing of his beloved bulldog, Rocco, in May 2025, and the emotional ovation during his return to Chase Center as a Maverick on Nov. 12, 2024,” McFarland wrote last Tuesday.
"A reunion could mend the wounds of Thompson’s departure, which left fans and the organization grappling with the end of the ‘Splash Brothers’ era. Bringing Thompson back could galvanize the fanbase and locker room, reinforcing the Warriors’ identity as a franchise that honors its legends."
"Thompson’s role would likely be reduced, potentially as a sixth man—a scenario that contributed to his departure in 2024.”
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"(Steve) Kerr’s breakfast meeting with Thompson in Manhattan Beach, where he discussed a fluctuating role, reportedly pushed Klay toward Dallas (Mavericks). The Warriors, already navigating the luxury tax, would need to send out matching salaries, likely involving (Moses) Moody and (Gui) Santos as proposed.”
No matter how the rest of Thompson’s career plays out, the Washington State product will always be a Warriors legend.
Thompson was expected to be an above-average perimeter shooter in the NBA after finishing his collegiate career with a 39.0% three-point shooting percentage.
However, it’s still remarkable that Thompson shot above 40% from long range nine times between 2011 and 2024 and guided the Warriors to four titles during his incredible tenure with Golden State.
Unfortunately, injuries and inconsistent offensive performances led the Warriors to part ways with the rapidly declining future Hall of Famer before things turned ugly in the Bay.
The Curry-led franchise traded Thompson to the Dallas Mavericks after the 2023-24 season, officially ending the Dubs’ dynasty.
Thompson averaged 14.0 points on 41.2% field goal shooting and 39.1% three-point shooting with the Mavericks this year, proving the Warriors’ decision to cut ties with the 35-year-old veteran was justified.
Still, if the organization is open to a reunion, Thompson could embrace a less demanding role during his second stint and help the Warriors avenge their 2025 postseason defeat.
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