Los Angeles Lakers rumors have been swirling recently as the team seeks upgrades for its roster. Wanting to make some changes to the shooting guard position, the team showed interest in Klay Thompson.
The Golden State Warriors star hit free agency this offseason, ending an era with the franchise. It was revealed on Monday that he agreed to a three-year, $50 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks to join the Western Conference champions.
To make the deal work, a sign-and-trade is being completed. The Charlotte Hornets are also involved and receiving Josh Green in the deal as final details are being worked out.
However, the biggest news to come out of these negotiations is that Rob Pelinka has been left at the altar by another free agent. If Lakers rumors are to be believed, Klay Thompson turned down a significantly bigger offer from Los Angeles to join Dallas.
According to Anthony Irwin, via NBA Central on X, the Lakers offered Klay Thompson a four-year, $80 million contract. Not only did he take less money to join Dallas, he also took a shorter deal.
If those Lakers rumors are true, it speaks volumes to the current state of the franchise. A player turning down a contract that is one year longer and worth $30 million is hard to fathom.
But, it would seem that Klay Thompson emphasized winning more than maximizing his earnings. As the defending Western Conference champs, it makes sense that he would view the Mavericks as a team closer to contention than the Lakers.
With the multi-time champion now off the board, Los Angeles will have to seek elsewhere for help at shooting guard. DeMar DeRozan is a potential option, as he is not returning to the Chicago Bulls this offseason.
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