Lakers to offer Klay Thompson a Max Contract through Free Agency?
By Mike Garcia
Klay Thompson torched the Lakers in the last preseason game for 25 points in 25 minutes on 9 of 13 shooting from the field.
The Lakers need a new face for the franchise. Kobe Bryant has been the face of the franchise for almost a decade. Julius Randle is still developing. Klay Thompson is in his prime and has many Laker ties. It helps that his father, Mychal Thompson played for the Lakers during their championship reign of the 1980s.
Would it be a surprise to see Klay Thompson as a Laker? I don’t think so.
"According to ChatSports writer Clark Mitchell, the Lakers are expected to target Thompson, the son of former purple-and-gold player Mychal Thompson, if he becomes available next summer, either as an unrestricted or restricted free agent.According to ChatSports analyst, the Lakers are expected to go all-in (max contract) in their pursuit of Thompson next year. General Manager Mitch Kupchack has been trying to snag Thompson, whom many analysts consider as a potential heir apparent to Kobe Bryant at shooting guard position.Read more: http://www.travelerstoday.com/articles/12914/20141012/los-angeles-lakers-klay-thompson-lakers-nation-lakers-rumors-nba-trade-news.htm#ixzz3FyTPhIoh"
Klay Thompson has scrimmaged against Kobe Bryant many times, and it wouldn’t be a surprise of his all-around play derived primarily from battles against Kobe Bryant.
The Lakers also have a lot of active bigmen in the paint. Ed Davis, Jordan Hill, Julius Randle are paint players known for their activity in the paint. Xavier Henry isn’t ready for a starting slot just yet, and Nick Young isn’t a consistent player as a starter. He’s more effective off the bench.
If there are any signs of skill sets that the current team is lacking, it is perimeter shooting. Jodie Meeks advanced his talent through hard work, and got a contract from the Detroit Pistons. Kendall Marshall shot over 40% from behind the arc. Farmar also shot over 40% behind the arc, but was able to do it in catch-and-shoot situations and off-the-dribble as well.
There would be no better way to address the skill set than to add one of the splash brothers.
Do you think that Klay Thompson would be a great Laker? What kind of potential trade scenario do you imagine the Lakers participating in, in order to acquire Klay Thompson?
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