The Mavs seem to be getting more and more lucky lately
Klay Thompson, now entering free agency for the first time without restrictions, had logical reasons to consider the Los Angeles Lakers as a potential landing spot this offseason. Growing up in Los Angeles as a Lakers fan, and with his father, Mychal Thompson, having clinched two NBA titles with the team during his playing days—and currently serving as a radio analyst for the team—made the Lakers a fitting choice. Moreover, Lakers’ star LeBron James even reached out personally to Thompson, suggesting he would adjust his own contract to facilitate Thompson’s signing.
Klay Thompson picked Dallas.
“Dallas was [Klay’s] top choice. He loved the way the Mavericks played and believed he’d be an ideal fit alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, sources said. He came into a dinner meeting with the Mavericks’ front office having studied tape of the… pic.twitter.com/J0ckmVM0LX
— Abby Jones (@_abigaiiiil) July 3, 2024
Despite these compelling ties, Thompson chose a different path, signing with the Dallas Mavericks in a significant career move facilitated by a three-team sign-and-trade involving the Golden State Warriors and the Charlotte Hornets.
The decision to join forces with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving in Dallas, rather than returning to the Warriors or joining LeBron in pursuit of another championship, was influenced by Thompson’s desire for a change of scenery. Sources indicated that joining the Lakers might have felt too similar to his situation with the Warriors, likening it to moving from one high-pressure environment to another.
BREAKING: Klay Thompson is signing with the Dallas Mavericks, per @NBCSWarriors pic.twitter.com/3cPF8kfxQD
— NBACentel (@TheNBACentel) June 21, 2024
The Warriors, with their global following enhanced by the dynamic duo of Thompson and Steph Curry, have transformed NBA play with their focus on three-point shooting and fast-paced action. The Lakers, similarly, are among the NBA’s most scrutinized and discussed teams, always in the media spotlight.
Klay Thompson had productive discussions with LeBron and JJ Redick, but the appeal of the Lakers’ situation couldn’t compete with what the Mavericks had to offer:
“As the Lakers waited for their chance to convince Thompson to come their way, he sent the word that a second… pic.twitter.com/1mtY6eqb9X
— OutOfSightSports🚀™️ (@OOSSports) July 3, 2024
By choosing the Mavericks, Thompson wasn’t stepping away from attention—especially given the team’s recent NBA Finals appearance and the high-profile status of part-owner Mark Cuban. Instead, Thompson was looking for a fresh experience for his 12th NBA season, seeking new challenges and a different environment in Dallas, where he could continue his career on new terms.
Major Points
- Klay Thompson, an unrestricted free agent for the first time, considered the Los Angeles Lakers due to his familial ties and personal history.
- Despite LeBron James personally reaching out and offering to adjust his contract, Thompson chose to sign with the Dallas Mavericks.
- The decision involved a three-team sign-and-trade with the Golden State Warriors and Charlotte Hornets.
- Thompson sought a new challenge and environment, feeling that joining the Lakers might mirror his experience with the Warriors.
- His move to the Mavericks promises new experiences and opportunities as he enters his 12th NBA season.
Susan Guglielmo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
