Magic News: $40 Million Luxury May Go Wasted on Klay Thompson as Shocking Kings Link Emerges

The Orlando Magic fans are happy with the recent developments off the court. The speculations regarding Warriors star player Klay Thompson joining them are gaining momentum. Recently on a popular 95.7 FM Podcast, Magic insider Brandon Kravitz provided the fans with an update on the situation.

Kravitz said, “If Klay ends up with the Magic, I’m going to do backflips,” admitting to the complexity of Thompson’s arrival. “Don’t get it twisted. But I don’t think it’s the best move,” he added considering factors best suited for the franchise.

“Is he worth what you would have to pay him given where he is in his career?” Kravitz later stated, questioning Klay Thompson’s abilities. The shooting guard, aged 34, has battled ACL and Achilles injuries from 2019 to 21, limiting his playtime and ability to perform. He went from 8.8 in 2014-15 in win share averages to 1.8 for the 2023-24 season. Thompson has also witnessed a fall in win, VORP and net rating at -0.3.

Blind to the number, signing Thompson will require the Magic with a hefty amount of money considering the guard’s recognizable run. The team is expected to have $40 million in cap space to offer Thompson a deal but the signing could limit the team’s flexibility to build a roster around Paolo Banchero & Franz Wagner. The instance thus places the franchise in a contained space.

Klay Thompson or Malik Monk: Who is the more suitable option?

Kravitz suggested that Malik Monk might be a better signing for the Magic rather than Klay Thompson. Malik Monk, the 26-year-old shooting guard playing for the Sacramento Kings, has been phenomenal this season, recording a career-best campaign. He has played 72 games this season, averaging 15.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. Comparing these stats to Klay Thompson’s stats this year, for the 1st time since the 2014–15 season, Thompson has averaged below 20 points at 17.9 with 3.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists.

Monk, who signed 2-year $19,418,049 contract with the Kings in 2022, has had a less injury-prone career so far. Though he also lacks Championship experience, Monk could be a gamble to play as it will also be a great addition to Magic’s young core and a long-term investment for the guard position.

Kravitz’s comments have offered fans a valuable outcome of what might happen in the upcoming pre-season. Klay’s experience and skill set are unbelievable, but the Magic must carefully consider the financial implications and potential risks associated with such a move. Malik Monk will provide the Magic with a better long-term option at a low cost. In the end, however, it depends on the Magic.

What do you think? Who should join Magic Klay or Monk, let us know in the comments.