Klay Thompson’s future in the NBA appears to be narrowing down to two primary destinations: the Los Angeles Lakers or the Dallas Mavericks. According to Jake Fischer on “The Dan Le Batard Show,” both teams are poised to offer Thompson a similar salary structure, likely around the mid-level exception, making his decision a matter of preference rather than financial incentive.
“I really do think right now it’s between Dallas and the Lakers, where they both can kind of basically give him the same type of salary structure, somewhere around the mid-level exception.”
“So, it’s just a matter of figuring out which scenario. The Lakers, I think, is more direct. They wouldn’t need any type of sign and trade. I don’t believe and Dallas has options to do that, but I’ve been told by the cap nerds.”
“I know that Dallas can clear away to just get their full mid level as well and bring him in without that complication. But, you know, Philly’s been looming on the periphery here too. They’ve got Paul Reed’s contract that is $8 million and non-guaranteed they could waive him, they could use him in a sign-in trade too.”
“So I’m not totally discounting the Sixers either, but overnight and so far early this morning the word has definitely been that he’s deciding between Dallas and the Lakers.”
“And I think objectively Dallas is clearly more positioned to help Klay Thompson compete for his fifth championship. So I think if winning ultimately rules the day, it’s going to be Dallas.”
"The word has definitely been that he [Klay Thompson] is deciding between Dallas and the Lakers… so if winning ultimately rules the day it's going to be Dallas."@JakeLFischer breaks downs NBA free agency and where Klay Thompson may end up after leaving the Warriors.
WATCH:… pic.twitter.com/e2zeY4Ampb
— Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz (@LeBatardShow) July 1, 2024
The Lakers present a straightforward option for Thompson. They wouldn’t require a sign-and-trade arrangement, simplifying the transition. Joining the Lakers would keep Thompson in California, where he has played his entire career.
The prospect of teaming up with LeBron James and Anthony Davis is undoubtedly enticing, as it would position Thompson in a team with a strong chance of making deep playoff runs. Additionally, playing for the Lakers would allow Thompson to maintain his California roots, providing continuity both on and off the court.
On the other hand, the Mavericks offer a compelling competitive edge. With Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving already on the roster, adding Thompson would create a formidable trio of Hall of Famers in the starting lineup.
Dallas has the flexibility to clear cap space and sign Thompson outright, avoiding any complicated sign-and-trade scenarios. The Mavericks are positioned to compete for an NBA championship immediately, making them an attractive destination for Thompson if winning another title is his primary goal.
While the Philadelphia 76ers have also been mentioned as a potential destination, the primary focus remains on Dallas and Los Angeles. The Sixers would need to navigate salary cap complexities, including potentially waiving or trading Paul Reed, to make room for Thompson. However, the immediate competition for Thompson’s services seems to be between the Mavericks and the Lakers.
For Mavericks fans, missing out on Thompson would be a significant disappointment, especially given their recent interest in other star wings like Tobias Harris, who signed with the Detroit Pistons.
Thompson’s arrival in Dallas would not only enhance their title aspirations but also solidify their roster with one of the best shooters in NBA history. Thompson’s career averages of 19.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 0.9 steals per game, combined with a 41.3 percent shooting from downtown, would make him an instant fan favorite in Dallas.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Thompson. Whether he chooses the competitive edge of the Mavericks or the continuity and star power of the Lakers, his choice will significantly impact the landscape of the NBA in the upcoming season.
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