Klay Thompson open to Lakers move; expresses desire to play alongside Doncic

The report, first mentioned by ESPN Los Angeles broadcaster John Ireland, claims the Lakers would be Thompson’s preferred destination if the 35-year-old decides to leave Dallas. The Mavericks are currently struggling, sitting 12th in the Western Conference with a 15-25 record, two wins outside the play-in positions.

Despite boasting high-profile names such as Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving and highly rated rookie Cooper Flagg, Dallas have failed to find consistency this season and are reportedly exploring roster changes. That situation has opened the door to speculation surrounding Thompson’s future.

Thompson joined the Mavericks in 2024 after spending 13 seasons with the Golden State Warriors. At the time, the Lakers were reported to have offered a four-year, $80 million contract, but Thompson opted instead for a three-year, $50 million deal with Dallas to play alongside Luka Dončić. That plan unraveled when Dončić was later traded to the Lakers in one of the most controversial deals in recent NBA history.

Now, Dončić is thriving in Los Angeles, while Thompson has struggled to make a similar impact in Dallas. A move to the Lakers would also carry personal significance, with his father Mychal Thompson having played for the franchise and won two NBA titles. Mychal currently serves as a Lakers radio color commentator.

However, the Lakers would need to weigh the risks carefully. Thompson has not been able to maintain his previous level this season, averaging 11.4 points and 2.5 rebounds across 37 games.

Thompson was selected by the Golden State Warriors with the 11th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. During his 13-year spell in San Francisco, he won four NBA championships (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022), earned five All-Star selections and was named to the All-NBA Third Team twice.

Mavericks’ upcoming schedule includes games against the Utah Jazz (16 and 18 January), New York Knicks (20 January), Golden State Warriors (23 January ) and Los Angeles Lakers (25 January).