Lakers News: Klay Thompson Pursuit Turns Pivotal in LeBron James’ $162 Million Decision After Confirmed Warriors Exit

It seems LeBron James is not bidding farewell to the game without another championship to his name. Bron has had one of the longest careers in NBA history and it’s understandable for him to desire that 5th title. The fact he is willing to compromise with personal interests is one extent of this desire. And JJ Redick himself has to prove the critics wrong for criticizing him before he even took the job. While Redick earlier stated Anthony Davis is key for the upcoming season, is Klay Thompson another aspect of the Lakers’ ambitions?

Notably, the King has opted out of his $51.4 million player option for next season. And even though he is eligible for a three-year, $162 million deal, he is ready to take a pay cut, as reported by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “Rich Paul of Klutch Sports told ESPN that LeBron James has officially opted out with L.A. and will work with LAL on his next deal if it means adding an impact player: ‘He is prioritizing a roster improvement. He’s been adamant about exuding all efforts to improve the roster,'” McMenamin posted on X.

Speculations are strong that this move is to let the Lakers attempt to land Thompson. The Athletic‘s Shams Charania’s earlier report that GSW is preparing to lose Thompson in free agency furthers these speculations. The Warriors and Big Smokey have had almost no communication since the negotiating period opened for incumbent free agents.

Charania further reported that the Lakers, Clippers, and Mavs are among the strong expected suitors for the 5x All-Star. “Multiple teams with salary cap space are expected to show interest in Thompson as well,” he added. Notably, OKC Thunder is among the top 5 teams in the league in cap space and was earlier reported to be interested in Klay. Additionally, reports also mention the Sixers, with around $55 million in cap space, as contenders.

These speculations stem from the team’s perceived desire to surround Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey with another star. Meanwhile, the Lakers have been a recent addition to the list of teams.

Why ‘native’ Klay Thompson would work in LeBron James’ Lakers?

There is no denying both Bron and AD are still in their prime form. However, the team has still suffered with a rough run in the past few seasons. And the 5x All-Star could be the missing piece that the team needs. It’s quite evident that the Lakers are in dire need of help with their three-point shooting department. Notably, the team shot 37.7 percent from deep during the regular season. And the number dropped to 29.9 in the first round of playoffs. They already went for one proficient shooter in the 2024 draft with Tennessee’s Dalton Knecht.

The 2024 SEC Player of the Year recorded a 3-point shooting percentage of 39.7 in his last season. Apart from this, Redick has already stated he will focus on maximizing AD’s potential by using him as a central pivot. “One of the things I brought up with him is the idea of him as a hub,” JJ said. Amid all of this, Thompson could be a seasoned addition to the team as another proficient shooter with a 41.3 three-point shooting percentage. As for Thompson, this could be a chance for him as well to go for his 5th championship, considering the extent Lebron James is willing to go for it.

Stay tuned for more such updates. And to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud, Caitlin Clark’s Olympic snub, and more, watch this video.