Los Angeles Lakers: Latest rumors before 2017 NBA free agency begins
Klay Thompson being recruited to LA?
At this point in the offseason, just about every big name set to be a free agent in the next couple of years has been linked to the Lakers. From George to LeBron James to Russell Westbrook, the rumors have run rampant regarding Magic’s plans for the future.
The latest name to add to that list is Klay Thompson, the two-time champion and star shooting guard for the Golden State Warriors. As it turns out, George is allegedly recruiting Thompson to join him in Los Angeles when he’s a free agent in 2019.
Former Warriors Kelenna Azubuike (who's close w/ many players) said Paul George is recruiting Klay Thompson to Lakers. Klay is a FA in 2019.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) June 28, 2017
With all of these options down the road, I’m guessing the Lakers would love to just skip the 2017-18 season. Chances are George joins the club next offseason, and James could do the same. Especially with reports surfacing that he’s not interested in playing for the Los Angeles Clippers (via the Undefeated’s Mike Wise), the Lakers seem like the top option if the King leaves Cleveland.
If James doesn’t work out, though, they could potentially save the cap space and sign Thompson in 2019. There’s been speculation he could jump ship to become a more prominent piece of someone else’s lineup. Plus, it’s not like the Warriors are going to have the money to dish out another max deal to keep Thompson around with Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green already raking it in.
Next: Predicting 3 free agents Lakers will actually sign
The tweet doesn’t exactly say the Lakers are planning on targeting Thompson, so take it with a grain of salt. Regardless, it’s a thought-provoking scenario that could actually play out if certain pieces fall into place.