Draymond Green Explains Why He Wanted Klay Thompson Off Warriors

Klay Thompson’s departure from the Golden State Warriors this week marked the end of an era. His exit has sent the organization into a scramble. They are now attempting to acquire one of two major superstars to replace him.

After spending 13 years in The Bay, turning the Warriors into one of the most respected dynasties in NBA History, and winning four championships, Thompson was unceremoniously ousted from the franchise.

Although the Warriors’ front office tried to maintain the illusion of wanting to keep Thompson, it was clear by the way they low-balled him that in reality they hoped he would leave.

This led to Thompson growing increasingly frustrated with his situation.

This week, Draymond Green – who had a particularly strong reaction when Thompson decided to sever ties with Stephen Curry ahead of free agency – explained why he was actually hoping Thompson would leave the Warriors.

“I do know the joy that basketball brings him and like it brought sadness, it brought unhappiness last year for him,” Green said.

“I do know the joy that basketball brings him and like it brought sadness, it brought unhappiness last year for him.”

Draymond Green on where Klay Thompson was at mentally last season with the Warriors 🗣️

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“Number one goal is to see them happy and enjoying what they do because you care about their well-being,” Green said.

“[To that end], a part of me wanted Klay to leave. Not wanting him to leave in the sense of wanting him to leave, but wanting him to leave because you only want to see him be the guy you know he is.”

By all accounts, the situation surrounding Thompson grew extremely toxic last year. In that respect –  it makes sense that all parties involved are happy a change is occurring.

Will the Warriors be better or worse off without Thompson come next season? Time will tell.

Anthony Amador

A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school Games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.