3 Landing Spots for Blockbuster Klay Thompson Trade Amid Mavs Chatter Heating Up

Though Klay Thompson has increased his scoring as of late, his name is still being brought up in widespread trade speculation involving the Dallas Mavericks. With the team (4-11) struggling to get out of the Western Conference's cellar, many are wondering if the Mavs will wipe their slate clean, remake their core, and start anew with Cooper Flagg as their anchor.

Though Thompson is past his prime, he can still help a contender with his unique set of skills. Here are potential landing spots for the four-time NBA champion.

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3 landing spots for Klay Thompson

#1 OKC Thunder

NBA: Oklahoma City Thunder at New Orleans Pelicans - Source: Imagn

The Mavericks are in desperate need of draft assets as they seek to establish a new identity in the coming years, and draft capital is exactly what the OKC Thunder has plenty of.

OKC is in an excellent position to retain its NBA title, but if it wants to spice things up on offense this season, it can part with some draft selections to acquire Thompson.

The 13-year veteran would bring experience, leadership and firepower to the Thunder bench.

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#2 Detroit Pistons

Detroit Pistons v Chicago Bulls - Source: Getty

Another relatively young team that could benefit from Thompson's veteran presence is the Detroit Pistons. The Motor City squad is clearly a team on the rise, but they run the risk of a first-round exit if they fail to upgrade their roster.

With the way Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren are playing, the Pistons have no need to make a big swing. A strategic acquisition like Thompson (in exchange for draft assets, among other things) could take them to the next level.

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#3 LA Lakers

Lakers, Clippers, NBA - Source: Getty

Last week, The Athletic reported that the Lakers had discussed a four-year, $80 million contract with Thompson before the 2024-25 season. While this deal obviously fell through, the Lakers remain a team to watch out for when it comes to landing spots for the reputed sharpshooter.

In the past, the combination of Thompson and LeBron James had been a dream scenario for fans of the purple and gold squad. Now that top-tier playmaker Luka Doncic is in town as well, the Lakers appear to be an excellent fit for Thompson.