“No Brainer”: Rob Pelinka Urged to Leave No Holds Barred For Klay Thompson After LeBron’s Rumored $17 Million Paycut

With Golden State Warriors star Klay Thompson moving closer to free agency, the race is now on to see which franchise can take in the player and strengthen their own position. Rumors suggest that LeBron James might accept a smaller pay to facilitate Thompson’s acquisition by the Lakers. This has led to calls urging Rob Pelinka and the Lakers management not to let such an opportunity slip through their fingers.

The speculation around Klay Thompson’s future has intensified as he approaches free agency. The Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as a potential destination for the Warriors star. A renowned podcaster emphasized that Rob Pelinka should seize this chance, especially given the rumor that LeBron James is willing to take a significant pay cut. “I think Klay Thompson is worth the Non-Tax Payer MLE,” said Buha. “If he’s available for the Lakers, and LeBron is willing to take the discount, it’s a no-brainer move.”

Jovan Buha of ‘The Athletic‘ highlighted the importance of this potential acquisition in a recent podcast. He discussed how LeBron James’ reduced pay, down to $33 million or lower, could provide the Lakers with the necessary cap space. If LeBron doesn’t agree to a pay cut, the franchise might have to sacrifice 21-year-old Max Christie to secure Thompson and avoid exceeding the Non-Tax Payer MLE.

Buha also mentioned other potential strategies, drawing parallels to the Dallas Mavericks’ salary-clearing moves. The Lakers might consider a salary dump involving players like Christian Wood, Jackson Hayes, and Cam Reddish, who collectively cost the team over $7.96 million. This approach could help create space for a three-year deal for Thompson, who is seeking a salary close to or exceeding the $43.2 million he earned in the 2023-24 season.

The possibility of a LeBron James-Klay Thompson partnership is gaining traction. According to NBA reporter Brad Turner, Thompson is intrigued by the idea of joining the Lakers if LeBron re-signs. With his son, Bronny James, now part of the Lakers roster, the chances of this happening are better than before. Turner mentioned that Thompson may soon engage in talks with the Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks.

Stephen A. Smith’s 7-month-old Desire for a LeBron-Klay Partnership

Before the recent developments, Stephen A. Smith had already expressed his interest in seeing Klay Thompson join forces with LeBron James. Back in November 2023, amid Klay’s inconsistent performance, Smith suggested that a change of scenery to Los Angeles could benefit Thompson and the Lakers. “If he’s not in Golden State, the one place I wanna see Klay Thompson in, is LA,” said Smith. “Let LeBron James have that brother to throw the basketball to and watch what that dude does.”

Smith’s remarks came during a period when Thompson’s performance was under scrutiny, with his averages dropping significantly. Smith believed that teaming up with LeBron could rejuvenate Thompson’s career and enhance the Lakers’ championship prospects. This perspective adds another layer of intrigue to the current rumors, suggesting that a LeBron-Klay duo has been a desired outcome for some time.

The potential fulfillment of Smith’s desire seems more plausible now than ever, with LeBron’s rumored pay cut and the Lakers’ interest in Thompson. This partnership, along with Anthony Davis, could form a formidable trio aiming for another championship ring. As the discussions progress, the Lakers’ management will need to carefully navigate their options to maximize their roster’s potential.

Before leaving, be sure to check out some insights that Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, shared about the Lakers legend’s infamous feud with the late Kobe Bryant.