Warriors Predicted to Reunite With Klay Thompson in Surprising Trade Proposal

The Golden State Warriors allowed Klay Thompson to walk in the offseason, a decision that shocked many around the NBA. Not only is Thompson still playing at a decent level, but he’s arguably one of the three greatest Warriors players in the history of the franchise.

Nonetheless, Thompson took a deal with the Dallas Mavericks and had a decent season a year ago, averaging 14.0 points while shooting 39.1% from 3-point range. That was the fewest points he averaged throughout his career since his rookie season in 2011-12, but it was a completely different role for him, and he did his job. 

However, some have questioned if the Mavericks could move on from him this offseason, including a recent trade idea from Empire Sports Media that would see Dallas send him back to Golden State. 

“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,” David McFarland wrote.

“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.”

Could Golden State Bring Back the Lost Splash Brother?

The Golden State Warriors bringing Thompson back would be a fun idea, but it might not make too much sense on the basketball court. Without factoring in his contract, Thompson is getting up there in age, and his injuries have certainly slowed him down. 

According to reports from Ramona Shelburne of ESPN, there were points throughout his last year with the Warriors where he felt disrespected. That isn’t ideal for Golden State or Thompson if they wanted to pursue a reunion. 

“Thompson had felt disrespected, sources said, that the team didn’t offer him an extension the summer after it won that title,” ESPN reported. “That feeling only deepened the following summer when Golden State was only willing to discuss two-year contracts in the range of $23 million to $24 million, instead of matching the four-year, $100 million deal Green had received.”

Is There Bad Blood Between the Warriors and Thompson?

Thompson felt disrespected due to how the Golden State Warriors handled his contract situation. He believed he deserved a contract, but the Warriors’ front office didn’t want to give him what he was seeking. 

They had their reasons, but ultimately, it all played out the way it did. 

If the Warriors ever considered a reunion, they have to remember what went on. Shelburne reported that he was miserable about how the team treated him, which should eliminate any potential of him returning. 

“But over the past year, Thompson has been relatively easy to read. He was ‘miserable,’ as one person close to him said. Miserable with how negotiations with the team had gone on a new contract. 

“Miserable at the thought he wasn’t respected or valued by the franchise in the way his older Splash Brother, Stephen Curry, 36, and Draymond Green, 34, were. Miserable at his declining role on the team. And yes, miserable at the way his game and play had declined, as well.”