Nuggets News: Klay Thompson Dream in Free Agency Ends Despite Viral Denver Sighting as $5 Million Move Dictates Future

It is finally happening! Following months of ‘will he or will he not’ conversations, it looks like we might have to get used to not seeing Klay Thompson wearing the Warriors uniform starting next season. With his 5-year $189 million deal coming to an end, both parties have failed to reach an agreement to extend. Reportedly, the Warriors are lacing up to lose the 4x champ in free agency. Amid this massive update, his recent sighting in Denver sparked rumors about Klay possibly choosing the Nuggets as his next home, but their financial constraints might have ended those hopes.

Fans were surprised when one of them spotted Klay enjoying his off-season in a restaurant in Mile High City. Sure enough, murmurs began of him joining forces with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray to pursue another title. Moreover, joining the Denver side has always seemed like a “pipe dream” for Klay, and with KCP declining his $15.4 million player option- possibly becoming a free agent, KT could be the perfect replacement to fill that void, as per Shams Charania via Harrison Wind. However, how realistic is this?

However, it looks like a far-fetched dream for both parties because the Nuggets do not have the available cap space to make a viable offer to Thompson. Already set to pay $123 million in salary to their three stars, Murray, Jokic, and Porter next season, there is not enough money left to go around for free agents. While the Nuggets still have the rights to match any offer other suitors make to KCP, they are not expected to do so because it’ll put them close to crossing the second apron of luxury tax.

But even if KCP departs, they will only have the taxpayer mid-level exception to offer Klay, which would mean nearly $5.18 million annual salary. And he is unlikely to take such a massive pay cut because he had reportedly declined a 2-year $48 million offer from GSW last year. He is likely looking for a 3-year deal paying nearly $20 million annually. So, KT might not end up in Denver after all.

Where could Klay Thompson land next season?

Joining the Nuggets seems impossible. But Klay does not need to worry too much because the Lakers, Mavs, and Clippers have been projected as possible destinations too. LA is his hometown and his father played there for many years, so, Klay has always wanted to wear a Lakers uniform if not the Warriors. He was also intrigued by the idea of sharing the court with LeBron, a player he battled several times in his prime. KT could also get an offer from the Clippers, as they meander with the possibility of Paul George leaving in free agency. Steve Ballmer could undeniably use a sharpshooter to remain a title contender.

Meanwhile, veteran Insider Marc Stein recently revealed that there is also strong mutual interest between Klay and the Mavs. Making a run to the NBA Finals last season, they seem to be only one piece away from winning it all.

Klay could be that missing piece. While Luka and Kyrie take care of business inside the paint, Klay’s presence will give them the option to pass the ball to an elite shooter when double-teamed. Even though his game declined this season, he still averaged nearly 18 points while shooting 38.7% from deep range, which is better than most shooters in the league.

So, whichever team Klay Thompson goes to, he can instantly turn into a key player and increase their chances of winning a Championship.

Before you go, do not forget to check out what Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato has to say about the alleged Shaq and Kobe Lakers beef. Keep checking this space for more such updates.