Golden State Warriors Planning on Losing Klay Thompson in Free Agency: Where Will He Land?

The Golden State Warriors understand that the Splash Brothers era is likely coming to an end.

On Saturday, The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported that Golden State legend Klay Thompson is expected to depart the Bay Area in free agency. 

The Warriors drafted the sharpshooting Thompson with the No. 11 overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. He’s won four NBA titles with the Warriors and has been an All-Star five times. He's undeniably one of the greatest Warriors ever, and a pivotal piece to their dynasty.

However, at age 34, Thompson is not consistently the player that he used to be, and a change of scenery is on the way as he seeks another major payday. Here are a few fits that make sense for Thompson:

Los Angeles Lakers

According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, LeBron James is willing to work with the Lakers on a new contract if it means adding a third star in Los Angeles.

If you’ve followed LeBron’s career over the last two decades, you know that at his core, he’s a pass-first player who thrives with shooting around him. That’s where Thompson comes in.

While he’s a far cry from a true, bona fide superstar like Paul George, who is also rumored to be on the move, Thompson’s shooting ability is unmatched. In an off-ball, catch-and-shoot role with the Lakers, his career can find new life and meaning on a Western Conference contender.

Orlando Magic

The Magic overachieved last season and took their first-round playoff series with the Cleveland Cavaliers all the way to Game 7. 

With a young core anchored by Paulo Banchero, the Magic don't need to make a move to go “all-in” for a superstar quite yet. They might already have that player in Banchero.

However, surrounding their young core with veterans that fit their needs and plug holes is the correct avenue to take. At times, the Magic were just too congested offensively. They need shooters and floor spacing. Adding one of the league’s best shooters, Thompson, this offseason makes sense.

Dallas Mavericks

After getting embarrassed in the NBA Finals, it seems like the Mavericks have to try something.

Obviously, after winning a Western Conference Championship, you cannot expect them to split up the duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. But still, at just 25 years old, it seems like Doncic could use some more help. 

Thompson immediately provides a shooting upside over other Mavericks roleplayers.