Klay Thompson’s season has been one to forget. He has played in the NBA for 13 seasons (11 if you add the two seasons he missed due to ACL and Achilles problems), and his shooting was at its worst in 2023-24.
Thompson averaged just 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists this season as the Golden State Warriors missed the playoffs. As they ended their season on a down note, the five-time NBA All-Star’s career takes centre stage as his supermax contract, signed in 2019, expires this season.
If he enters free agency in 2024, several teams have expressed interest in him, with the Orlando Magic emerging as the best option. With that, here are a couple more teams that could sign Klay Thompson this offseason.
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Five teams might trade for Klay Thompson in 2024. Free Agency
#5. Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic have been one of the most outstanding teams this season. They extended their first round to Game 7 to put pressure on the Cleveland Cavaliers, but fell short.
Their season finished less than a few days ago, but the franchise is already gaining notice for the offseason adjustments that are being implemented.
Reports circulated that Klay Thompson and the Magic were “mutually” interested in each other’s services. The veteran tackles the Magic’s shooting issues this season, which were evident against the Cavaliers.
Thompson is a dynamic forward/guard who can shoot from both the field and from three points with ease. When you consider his leadership, Orlando could be the ideal location for the Warriors great.
#4 Dallas Mavericks
Klay Thompson to the Dallas Mavericks makes great sense, assuming the move is a sign-and-trade.
His catch-and-shoot abilities would give offensive firepower to Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. While a rich contract may raise questions, the Mavericks may employ Thompson to prove that he was the same force he was prior to his injury.
The Mavericks, like the Magic, have no players with championship DNA or expertise. Unless Doncic or Irving come close to or win the Larry O’Brien Award, they could benefit from a guy like Thompson, who can contribute as a starter or off the bench. However, price and options would be the most important considerations in this transaction.
#3 Chicago Bulls
Prior to the season, mock deals suggested that the Golden State Warriors would trade for Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls, giving one veteran and a couple of role players in exchange. Later, a reported deal for Alex Caruso and Jonathan Kuminga fell apart as Golden State deemed the asking price too high.
Fast forward to the present, and the Bulls and Warriors have had disastrous seasons, failing to make the postseason. So if the fake deal is pursued further, LaVine for Klay Thompson is an option.
Thompson not only brings championship experience to Chicago, but he also addresses the 3-and-D wing issue that has plagued them all season. His experience, combined with Coby White’s playmaking, would make for an interesting watch next season.
#2 LA Lakers
In February, NBA insider Shams Charania predicted that both the Los Angeles (Lakers and Clippers) and Florida teams will make a beeline for Klay Thompson.
Furthermore, the Lakers and four-time NBA champion Thompson have a history together, as his father, Mychal Thompson, played for the Showtime Lakers. When you consider Kobe Byrant and the guards’ friendship, there’s reason to believe a deal is possible.
Thompson might help the Lakers improve their three-point shooting. While he has had a forgettable season, it is worth mentioning that even at his worst, he shot 38.7% from the three-point line.
Thompson has demonstrated that he can play off the bench, and his willingness to lead the second unit might make him a good addition to the Purple and Gold.
#1: Golden State Warriors
While Klay Thompson will have plenty of suitors in free agency, he may complete his career with the Warriors.
Golden State rejoined the ‘Big 3’ last season, signing Draymond Green to a contract extension. And dealing away a crucial piece of their past success may not be the best option for the team trying to pair Steph Curry with a shooter who is just as skilled and versatile.
Before the start of the 2023-24 season, the Warriors reportedly offered Klay Thompson a two-year, $48 million contract deal. That’s a significant move, but far from the five-year contract he signed in 2019, which ends at the conclusion of the season.
If he agrees to a deal that he believes is considerable but not a supermax, he might fulfil his dream of retiring as a Warrior.