Lakers Nearly Landed Klay Thompson Before Doncic Trade, Now Face Mavericks Struggles

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic indirectly helped the team avoid a potentially costly contract decision before being traded from the Dallas Mavericks, as Klay Thompson initially chose Dallas believing he’d be playing alongside Doncic.

Thompson agreed to a three-year, $50 million deal with the Mavericks in July 2024, opting for a smaller contract and the opportunity to team up with Doncic over a four-year, $80 million offer from the Lakers. However, just six months later, the Mavericks traded Doncic to Los Angeles in exchange for Anthony Davis. Thompson is now averaging a career-low 7.4 points per game while shooting just 31% from the field, and was recently moved to the bench by Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd following a loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday.

The situation unfolded after Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison was fired yesterday by team owner Patrick Dumont, only 282 days after orchestrating the trade that sent Doncic to the Lakers. This series of events highlights the unpredictable nature of NBA roster building and the significant impact of player decisions. Currently, the Lakers hold an 8-3 record and lead the Pacific Division, while the Mavericks are 3-8 and have the NBA’s worst offensive rating – a stark contrast to expectations.

The Mavericks are now focused on building around rookie Cooper Flagg, while the Lakers enjoy success with Doncic, who is averaging 37.1 points per game. The NBA is a league built on star power, and the miscalculation with Thompson and subsequent trade of Doncic could have long-term consequences for the Mavericks’ future, as detailed by NBA.com. Officials have not commented on the long-term implications of these roster moves.