The 2024 offseason is going to shake the NBA up in a major way, with free agency already leading to major changes around the league. One of the biggest changes is Klay Thompson likely being done with the Warriors, with the four-time champion expected to leave. While the Mavericks are considered favorites to land him, the Los Angeles native is reportedly considering joining either the Clippers or Lakers.
“Word circulating among league personnel that Thompson could be willing to take that amount in order to join the Lakers or Clippers. That would be a steep drop from the two-year, roughly $50 million offer Thompson declined at the start of this past season.”
The report also reaffirms the Mavericks’ position as the leaders in the Klay race at the moment.
“He remains on the list of secondary wing options for Philly should George spurn the Sixers, sources said. Dallas appears to be one of, if not the strongest suitors for Thompson.”
Klay averaged 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists last season, shooting 38.7% from three on 9.0 attempts per game. He shot over 40% from three after December 2023, with a slow start to the season leading to Klay’s first season shooting below 40% from three in his career.
Klay Thompson’s Family Ties May Bring Him To The Lakers
Realistically speaking, Klay Thompson will not sign with the Clippers if the Lakers give him an identical offer with the non-taxpayer mid-level exception. Klay grew up a Lakers fan, with his father Mychal Thompson playing for the franchise from 1987 to 1991. He still works with the organization as a radio announcer, so there are clear family ties for him to consider.
Mychal has previously joked about how badly he wanted his son to be a Laker but lamented how the Warriors got to him before he had a chance.
After the news of Klay’s interest in joining the Lakers broke, his father didn’t hide his excitement and told Lakers fans that he was doing everything possible to ensure his son joined the franchise.
The Lakers seem like the most obvious destination for Thompson, as he can play in a veteran-led roster behind LeBron James and Anthony Davis while returning to his hometown for the franchise he rooted for as a kid. It would be a dream come true, but only if Klay is happy with taking the mid-level exception.
The Mavericks are trying to get Klay on their roster in a sign-and-trade, which will allow Klay to get paid more than about $13 million. He would play alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving in this situation and would likely help the Mavericks contend in a tertiary offensive role at best.
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