**Mavericks Emerge as Favorites to Sign Top Free Agent Klay Thompson**
The Dallas Mavericks are reportedly the leading contenders to sign shooting guard Klay Thompson, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. This development follows some recent roster moves by the Mavericks.
Klay Thompson, who has spent his entire 11-year NBA career with the Golden State Warriors, is set to enter free agency this offseason.
“With the Warriors and Thompson nowhere close to a contract agreement after a tumultuous season marked by fractious negotiations, multiple sources have indicated that the Mavericks are likely to emerge as the favorite to sign the shooting guard,” Stein wrote.
Stein earlier reported that the Mavericks are “intent on exploring the feasibility of signing Thompson.” The Warriors and Thompson have made no progress in their contract discussions.
Last week, The Athletic’s Anthony Slater reported that the Warriors had not made any offers to Thompson, and there had been “no productive discussion between the Warriors and Thompson or his representatives.” It appears both parties remain at an impasse, with Stein noting they are “nowhere close.”
Thompson, who averaged 17.9 points per game last season—his lowest since 2013—was benched by the Warriors during the season. Despite his 41.2% shooting from behind the arc two seasons ago, his inconsistent performance suggests he may no longer be a reliable second option in the NBA, which is a concern for the Warriors as they aim for another championship.
**Mavericks’ Recent Moves and Future Prospects**
The Mavericks traded veteran guard Tim Hardaway Jr. to the Detroit Pistons for Quentin Grimes in a salary dump, gaining an attractive asset in Grimes and creating cap flexibility. This move enables the Mavericks to qualify for the full non-taxpayer mid-level exception. They could use this cap space to re-sign Derrick Jones Jr., a priority for the team, or make a significant splash in free agency by pursuing Thompson.
The Mavericks finished the 2023-24 season just three wins away from their second-ever championship. Most of their team is under contract for the next two years. However, against the eventual champions, the Boston Celtics, it became clear that the Mavs need a third scoring option. The Celtics used various defensive coverages against Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, forcing them to take tough shots or pass to teammates who failed to consistently make threes. PJ Washington, who performed well during the Thunder series, was a temporary third scoring option but proved inconsistent.
Klay Thompson, a four-time champion, would fit well alongside Luka and Kyrie, bringing championship experience and elevating the team’s performance. Known for his scoring off the catch, Thompson would benefit from the space created by the ball-dominant Mavericks backcourt. His addition could be the key to pushing the Mavericks closer to another championship.
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