Klay Thompson’s recent removal of championship-winning pictures with Stephen Curry from his social media account has sparked speculations about his future with the Golden State Warriors. Moreover, this unexpected action has led many to believe that contract renewal discussions between the franchise and the player aren’t progressing favorably, especially considering the Dubs’ restricted hand in offering Klay a lucrative contract; after already surpassing their cap space.
The 6’6” shooting guard’s performance in the 2023-24 season showed signs of decline, with his second-lowest career 3-point shooting percentage (38.7%) and lowest field goal percentage (43.2%) since his sophomore year. Averaging 17.9 points per game, it appears Klay may no longer be suited for the role of the No. 2 co-star for the Warriors. Considering how time is rapidly ticking for them to win another Larry O’Brien trophy with Steph being in his prime, Thompson’s diminishing form could potentially hinder rather than boost those aspirations.
In light of these circumstances, let’s examine the top 5 most suited destinations for the five-time All-Star as the 2024 free agency approaches.
Orlando Magic
The Magic are one of the most promising teams in the Eastern Conference with a young core of Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs. While Jamahl Mosley’s team has talented big men who helped record the second-best defensive rating in the recently concluded season, the biggest reason why they couldn’t progress past the first round was their abysmal 3-point shooting.
In a fast-paced modern-day NBA game, Orlando shot the second-fewest 3-point attempts per game and was last in 3-point field goals. This is precisely where an experienced Klay Thompson can boost the winning prowess of this team. While his defensive voids are bound to be overshadowed by Magic’s big men protecting the rim, Thompson’s 3-point shooting can hand their scoring arsenal a huge boost, especially in clutch situations.
LA Lakers
The LA Lakers are in desperate need of a championship as LeBron James’ career enters its final phase. With stars like D’Angelo Russell and Christian Wood expected to opt into their player options and Spencer Haywood and Taurean Prince becoming unrestricted free agents, the Purple and Gold need experienced 3-and-D shooters; which is where Klay Thompson could be the perfect fit.
He not only attempts 7.6 three-pointers per game, which would improve the Lakers’ (third-worst) ranking in three-pointers attempted, but his ability to create space on the perimeter without needing the ball makes him a great complement to LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
More importantly, the Lakers could be a team with whom Klay can chase his fifth championship ring.
Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers have $55 million to spend this summer, and after the mistake of bringing in a superstar like James Harden, which disrupted the team’s cohesion, they can use these funds more wisely. In the summer of 2024, they could try a different strategy to knit a stronger and more reliable supporting cast around their marquee duo.
With Klay on board, Joel Embiid could benefit more from two-man action, whereas Tyrese Maxey would have more space to operate on the floor. Most importantly, the California native would boost Philly’s 3-point shooting, which was only 19th in the league at 36.7% last season.
San Antonio Spurs
After decades, the Spurs have finally landed another generational talent in Victor Wembanyama. The 7’4” Frenchman, in his rookie year, led the league in blocks and earned a spot on the All-Defensive Team, all while averaging 21.4 points per game. Yet the team only won 22 games in the 2023-24 season.
Adding Klay, who is one of the best pure shooters and spot-up 3-point shooters, would bring proven-winning energy to the camp. Furthermore, the four-time NBA champ can help guide Wemby and enhance the skills of younger players like Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson.
Chicago Bulls
Thompson to the Bulls may be one of the boldest scenarios that could take place this summer. While for Thompson to arrive at Windy City, DeMar DeRozan may have to depart in free agency, the complementary playing style of Thompson could go hand-in-hand with Bulls’ rising star – Coby White.
Lastly, as the Bulls ranked 27th in the league with an efficiency rate of 32.9% from long-range, Thompson’s presence could prove essential for the team’s floor spacing – a luxury that they couldn’t afford with DeRozan’s mid-range shooting. Safe to say, Klay’s addition would enhance Chicago’s offensive spacing, creating more opportunities for White to drive to the basket effectively, where his stronghold seems highest.
Perhaps who knows Thompson could be the change required to change the narrative about the depleted modern-day Bulls.
