The Los Angeles Lakers could make a run for shooting guard Klay Thompson, if the Golden State Warriors fail to lock him up with a contract extension by October 31 deadline.
According to Chat Sports writer Clark Mitchell, the Lakers are expected to target Thompson, the son of former purple-and-gold player Mychal Thompson, if he becomes available next summer, either as an unrestricted or restricted free agent.
Reports indicated that the Warriors and Thompsons are still not on the same page with regards to their contract extension talks, and with roughly three weeks left in the window, Thompson seems to be on the brink of becoming a free-agent in the summer of 2015.
"The Warriors have 22 days to preemptively deliver a contract extension that will keep Klay Thompson with the franchise for at least another five years," CSN Bay Area reporter Monte Poole reported this week.
"But there has been no movement in recent weeks. As of Thursday morning, the sides remain $2-3 million a year apart, according to NBA sources. Thompson is seeking a max deal, or something close - at least $15 million per year - while the Warriors, according to sources, hover around $13 million per."
The 24-year old Thompson averaged 18.4 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game over three seasons in the league. He has carved up a reputation as one of the most potent shooters in the game, as he shares the same backcourt with another great sniper in Stephen Curry.
The Warriors wanted to lock up arguably the most explosive backcourt in the NBA for more years to come, but the franchise's conservative approach in contract negotiations could lead to the exit of the still improving Thompson.
According to ChatSports analyst, the Lakers are expected to go all-in (max contract) in their pursuit of Thompson next year. General Manager Mitch Kupchack has been trying to snag Thompson, whom many analysts consider as a potential heir apparent to Kobe Bryant at shooting guard position.
Other than the Lakers, the Dallas Mavericks, Sacramento Kings, Detroit Pistons, Chicago Bulls and even the Miami Heat are expected to put a max offer for Thompson once he hits the market in a very loaded free-agency class next summer.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
