You get this sense with the Warriors — guys like playing there now. You could feel the team chemistry when you watch them play. They liked each other, they were having fun together. And that was fun to watch.
Carl Landry wants to stay a part of that.
But the NBA is a business.
Landry can opt out of the last year of his $4 million deal for next season — and he should. He averaged 10.8 points and 6 rebounds a game off the bench for the Warriors last season and was a key cog for them in the postseason. Other teams noticed. He’ll get a little big bigger payday and a multi-year deal that gives him security. Plus, better he does it this year in a weak free agent class when teams are more likely to overpay than next year in a loaded class.
His head is telling him one thing, his heart another. Landry told the Contra Costa Times he is having a hard time with this decision.He called it the hardest decision of his career.
CARL LANDRY: “I mean, this is the best team I’ve ever played for on this level, especially as far as chemistry. And the scary thing is we’ve been together one year….
“The Warriors are home whether I opt in or out. Hopefully, I can spend the rest of my career here because this is a very special place. Everything here is what you want: the city, the fans, the front office, the coach, the teammates. You can’t ask for anything more.”
Landry likely opts out, but it sounds like he is going to give Golden State a chance to match — or at least come close, he might allow a little hometown discount. A deal like three years, $15 million seems about the right fit, but we will see what the market will offer.
Still, you listen to his comments and you have to think Landry will be back with Golden State next season.