Steve Kerr wants to have Klay Thompson and Chris Paul on team next season / News - Basketnews.com

Warriors face uncertainty with the potential departure of veteran stars like Klay Thompson and Chris Paul following their elimination from the playoffs, prompting coach Steve Kerr to express hope for their return.

Credit: AP Photo/Paul Beaty Credit AP Photo/Paul Beaty

The Golden State Warriors suffered a disappointing end to their playoff hopes, falling to the Sacramento Kings 118-94 in the Play-In Tournament.

Player of the Game EFF 30 Keegan Murray Points 32 Accuracy 10-20 Rebounds 9 Assists 0

This loss prompted coach Steve Kerr to discuss the future of some veteran players, including Klay Thompson, whose contract is nearing its end.

Thompson, a cornerstone of the Warriors since being drafted in 2011, might explore free agency in July, according to sources like The Athletic's Shams Charania and ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

"We need Klay [Thompson] back," Kerr said after the loss to Sacramento. "He's still got good years left. I know I speak for everybody in the organization: we want him back. Obviously, there is business at hand, but what Klay has meant to this franchise, as good as he still is, we desperately want him back."

Thompson arguably played his worst game under Kerr versus the Kings, finishing with 0 points on 0/10 field goals and 0/6 three-pointers in 28 minutes. Thompson has only gone scoreless under Kerr once (4 times in his career): Nov. 14, 2023, when he was ejected 1:43 into the game.

Another veteran under scrutiny is Chris Paul, who joined the Warriors this campaign and provided valuable support as a backup point guard to Stephen Curry, averaging 9.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 6.8 assists in the regular season.

"Chris has been fantastic, not only on the court but the leadership. ... He is one of our best players. ... I love coaching Chris (Paul). I really hope we bring him back next year," Kerr stated.

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