The Dallas Mavericks did not become complacent after reaching the NBA Finals. They signed four-time champion Klay Thompson after his feud with the Golden State Warriors, despite LeBron James’ efforts to entice him to the Los Angeles Lakers.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Thompson will join the Mavericks on a three-year, $50 million contract facilitated by a sign-and-trade agreement between the Warriors and the Charlotte Hornets. Josh Green will be traded to Charlotte, and Dallas will receive two second-round picks from the Hornets.
To be eligible for a sign-and-trade, a player must sign a deal for at least three years. Thompson, who averaged 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists this season, did so without an option in the contract. In terms of pay, he appeared to sign for less. Still, the tax differences between Texas and California were taken into account, as was Dallas’ proximity to becoming a championship club.
Thompson was naturally drawn to the Lakers. His father, Mychal, played with the organization from 1987 to 1991 and is now a radio presenter. James attempted to recruit Thompson shortly after free agency opened. Given their recent first-round elimination to the Denver Nuggets in five games, Thompson most likely saw joining the Mavericks as a better choice for competing for his fifth championship.
The Mavericks reportedly visited with Thompson, including Irving, in Los Angeles to pique Thompson’s interest. Irving faced Thompson numerous times in the NBA Finals while playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Golden State Warriors. Irving’s recruiting success is not surprising, given that he provided feedback on who he wants to play alongside during his free agency last summer and in confidential meetings, showcasing options in future free agency classes.
With the Mavericks bringing Thompson in to start on the wing with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, Derrick Jones Jr.’s choice to join the Los Angeles Clippers in free agency on a three-year, $30 million contract following Paul George’s departure became evident. Jones will undoubtedly be given more opportunities to play more minutes with the Clippers in order to build on his impressive performance last season.
The Mavericks front staff began working on different strategies based on conceivable outcomes, keeping them ready for Jones’ exit. Dallas had already agreed to terms with Naji Marshall before Jones announced his departure. Marshall agreed to a three-year contract worth $27 million.
One aspect of the Mavericks’ sign-and-trade deal for Thompson that should not be forgotten is how Dallas handled shifting Tim Hardaway Jr.’s contract to the Detroit Pistons while attaching three second-round selections. It unlocked the $12.9 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception and brought back Quentin Grimes, giving Dallas a substitute for Green before he left.
