Los Angeles Lakers Land 19 PPG 2x All-NBA SF in 4-Team Deal
The Los Angeles Lakers are still in the market for roster reinforcements, as evidenced by their ongoing pursuit of Atlanta Hawks free agent swingman Jonathan Kuminga. Another player who has recently emerged on the Lakers' radar is Dallas Mavericks star Klay Thompson. A Los Angeles native, Thompson has been linked to the Lakers stretching back to his prime years. It appears both sides share mutual interest.
But the Lakers might offer the former All-Star with a cleaner on-court fit. Last result: Los Angeles Lakers 110-115 Oklahoma City Thunder (2026-05-12). Recent form (last 5): 0W-0D-5L (LLLLL, most recent first); lost the last 5.
What happened?
A projected framework that lands Thompson in L.A. has the Lakers receive: Klay Thompson and a 2031 second round pick (via POR). The Mavs receive: Vit Crejci and a 2031 second round pick (via LAL). The Trail Blazers receive: Jarred Vanderbilt and Moritz Wagner. The Nets receive: Robert Williams.
Why it matters for Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers land Thompson without absorbing additional salary. The Mavs trim over $17 million in payroll while the Blazers add some needed frontcourt depth. The Nets pick up a center they could use.
What comes next?
Thompson, 36, still has one season remaining on a three-year deal he signed with the Mavs as a free agent in 2024. That summer, Thompson reportedly considered joining the Lakers, but it was the pull of getting to play alongside Luka Doncic that pushed the five-time All-Star to sign with Dallas.
The Miami Heat stands out as the most frequently mentioned suitor for Thompson. But the Lakers might offer the former All-Star with a cleaner on-court fit. It appears the Mavs are dug in on a decision; Thompson will not be bought out, but Dallas is willing to trade him.
What's the latest on Klay Thompson?
Thompson is owed $17.5 million this season and is set to become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2027. The Mavericks have explored his trade market but have yet to find a deal, multiple sources with rival teams told The Athletic on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss any potential negotiations.
The Lakers' pursuit of Thompson is a significant development in the NBA offseason. With the team's recent form (last 5: 0W-0D-5L), they are in need of a boost to their roster. Thompson's addition could provide the necessary spark to get the team back on track.
