As Klay Thompson’s unrestricted free agency begins at 6 pm ET on Sunday, June 30, the Golden State Warriors veteran finds himself without a new deal to remain in the Bay Area. This development allows Thompson to negotiate with any team in the league, increasing the likelihood of his departure from Golden State.
A recent report by Marc Stein indicates that the Dallas Mavericks are among the teams showing interest in Thompson. This interest comes after the Mavericks cleared some cap space by trading Tim Hardaway Jr. to the Detroit Pistons.
“League sources tell The Stein Line that the Dallas Mavericks, with some newfound financial flexibility after securing the Tim Hardaway Jr.-to-Detroit trade that I wrote about Tuesday, are another team intent on exploring the feasibility of signing Thompson once he makes it to free agency,” Stein reported.
In addition to the Mavericks, the Orlando Magic, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Denver Nuggets have also expressed interest in adding the veteran shooter to their rosters. Thompson’s elite shooting and defensive skills on the wing make him an attractive option for several contending teams.
While Golden State could still retain Thompson, the delay in opening negotiations decreases the likelihood of him staying with the team for the upcoming season. If the Warriors fail to act quickly, they risk losing one of their cornerstone players to a rival team.
Thompson’s potential departure has significant implications for both the Warriors and any team that acquires him. His championship experience, coupled with his scoring and defensive abilities, would be a valuable addition to any roster. For the Mavericks, securing Thompson could bolster their perimeter shooting and add a seasoned defender, enhancing their chances of deep playoff runs in the competitive Western Conference.
As free agency unfolds, Thompson’s next destination will be a key storyline to watch, potentially shifting the balance of power within the NBA. Teams vying for his signature will aim to leverage his talents to boost their championship aspirations, making this one of the most intriguing free agency periods in recent years.