Klay Thompson is far removed from his best days, but one could still talk themselves into him being a solid role player. The Miami Heat have done just that. Marc Stein had them 'at the front of the line' for Klay, if the Dallas Mavericks buy him out. That is not the preferred route for the Mavericks, though.
"The Stein Line has learned that there has indeed been direct contact this offseason between new Mavericks president Masai Ujiri and Thompson, but Dallas has maintained since mid-June that it prefers to trade Thompson if possible rather than buy him out."
This is where the Los Angeles Lakers come in. Klay's own dad has expressed his intent on getting the four-time NBA champion to Los Angeles. The Lakers should have a multi-team deal here that can accomplish that, exercising the opportunity to get rid off Jarred Vanderbilt's money.
It would have to involve more than just the two teams because the Mavericks would theoretically have no interest in Vanderbilt on a roster that is over the limit. Stein described Thompson's fate as 'undecided.' If Ujiri and company are strong settled on wanting a trade, not a buyout, the Lakers could be among the best game in town.
Lakers must figure out if Klay Thompson is worth usurping the Heat
So, is Thompson worth the trouble for the Lakers? Yes and no.
In terms of on-court ability, the days on Klay being a positive on the defensive end are mostly gone. The Mavericks wing only shot 39.3 percent from the field, too. What still remains strong is the 3-point shot. 38.3 percent, the lowest figure of his career, is still better than most.
Realistically, this would be more about flipping Vanderbilt's money for someone that could be impactful on a situational basis. If the Lakers have exhausted all other options to move Vando, Thompson gives them an opportunity to turn two years of bad money into an expiring contract.
Klay's near $17.5 million comes off the books after 2026-27. Vanderbilt has a player option for next season (which he should be inclined to pick up).
Would Thompson want to be in Los Angeles? For multiple reasons, that can safely be assumed as yes.
Firstly, Christian Clark reported earlier this summer that Thompson 'would welcome a return' to the city. Secondly, Stein also pointed out in the report above that Klay has discussed wanting a chance to compete for a championship. That does not happen in Dallas, but it could in Los Angeles.
There is certainly a level of doability to all of this for the Lakers. It is just a matter of desire.
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