On the Pat McAfee Show, NBA insider Shams Charania recently discussed potential destinations for Klay Thompson. Shams on Klay Thompson said, “This has been a stressful year for Klay Thompson. He has been going through it at different points. I think he is doing the best to get through it. He is set to enter Free Agency at the end of the season. I expect him to test the marketplace.”
Klay Thompson’s “Last Dance” With Warriors
It has been an up-and-down roller coaster year for Klay Thompson. So far this season, in 46 games played, Klay is averaging 17 points per game and still shooting better than 40% from beyond the arc. For the last several seasons going back till 2018, Klay still put up over 20 points per game, and the three-point shooting efficiency, though in no way bad this year, was much better in prior seasons. The Warriors head coach talked about the difficulties of aging in the NBA with Steve Kerr on Klay Thompson’s recent attitude shift, saying, “Klay is starting to reconcile everything that’s happened. He’s had a hard time these last couple of years. Part of being effective later in your career is embracing and accepting those changes.”
Klay Thompson came off the bench for the first time since his rookie season for Golden State before the All-Star break and put on a show like the old Klay that we’ve come to know. Thompson led the Warriors to a 140-137 victory over the Utah Jazz, knocking down seven 3-pointers and scoring a season-high 35 points.
During the All-Star game broadcast, there was a conversation between Charles Barkley and Draymond Green around the reports the Warriors had attempted to trade for LeBron James. Barkley says to Draymond, “If the Lakers could get Klay and/or Kuminga, they would do that deal tomorrow.” Draymond responds, “When I talked to Joe on the phone, and we were discussing what we would have to give up I said if it’s Kuminga the answer is no.” Draymond Green clearly pointed out he didn’t want Kuminga traded but didn’t mention Klay Thompson. After struggling at times this season and being involved in trade rumors, a potential change of scenery may be what Klay Thompson needs. Shams Charania listed the top five potential teams most likely to land Klay Thompson if he were to leave Golden State.
Boston Celtics
The idea of Klay joining the Celtics makes sense in theory, so far Boston has been the best team in the Eastern Conference this season and, some argue, the best team in the entire league. If they fall short as they have in the past, Klay Thompson could be an excellent veteran presence for the Boston Celtics, but it seems the least likely of all the scenarios.
Los Angeles Clippers
Though Shams mentions Klay and both LA teams have mutual interest, it is more than likely the Clippers will have their hands full in free agency negotiating with their own stars as recently acquired James Harden will be an unrestricted free agent while Russell Westbrook and Paul George both have player options.
Miami Heat
Like Boston, Miami would be a tremendous win-now situation that could seamlessly fit Klay into their rotation. The addition of Thompson might be what the Miami Heat need to get their first ring in the Jimmy Butler era, having lost to Denver in the finals last year and losing to the Lakers in 2020. At the very least, Klay would certainly make Miami a team that could make some serious noise in the Eastern Conference.
Orlando Magic
There will be multiple reports about the Orlando Magic being compelling options for several superstars, along with Klay Thompson. The Magic are certainly a team on the rise, with players like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner continuing to improve. Orlando could have a ton of cap space this offseason and will most likely be looking to add a veteran to their young core.
Los Angeles Lakers
The most likely destination if Thompson were to leave is the Los Angeles Lakers. With LeBron James and Anthony Davis, an addition of Klay Thompson could put the Lakers back in title contention, while Klay could join the team he’s been a fan of since he was a kid. The biggest market would keep Klay on the West Coast, just down south from the Bay, and it makes a lot of sense adding a great veteran shooter to surround LeBron with and for Thompson, a connection to the franchise. Klay’s father, Mychal Thompson, won two NBA championships with the Lakers during their Showtime era in the 1980s. In all likelihood, Golden State will end up keeping Klay, but if the team wants to be title contenders around Curry still, some of the Warriors’ critical pieces from their dynasty or the young, talented prospects may have to be moved. The Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors will match up Thursday night in the Chase Center for the teams’ first games post-All-Star break, both fighting to solidify themselves in the playoffs.
Bennett Ervin has been a sports writer for Hardwood Heroics since January 2024. Reporting for the Sacramento Kings, Los Angeles Lakers, and other NBA news as well as discussing Fantasy Basketball news such as trades and weekly wavier wire pickups.