Klay Thompson will become a free agent this offseason, as some NBA teams can offer him a lot of money to get him out of Golden State.

As the NBA offseason approaches, the future of Klay Thompson with the Golden State Warriors hangs in the balance. The Warriors have refrained from offering him a max contract, citing concerns about his performance not matching the lofty standards set in his pre-injury days. Following a season where Thompson has been disappointing with his performances, the Warriors seem hesitant to commit to a maximum deal for a player still finding his rhythm.

In a recent statement, Klay Thompson acknowledged his willingness to embrace a reduced role within the Warriors, echoing the spirit of legendary sixth man Manu Ginobili during the San Antonio Spurs’ dynasty. However, with the allure of potential higher earnings and a chance to shine elsewhere, several NBA teams could present lucrative opportunities for Thompson this summer. The NBA’s most recent projection for next season called for a $141 million cap, where some teams may be interested in bidding for the sharpshooter.

Kevin Durant Thought His Basketball Career Was Over WhenHe Tore His Achilles In 2019 Finals: “My Whole Career Flashed Before My Eyes…”Read More1. Philadelphia 76ers

Players under contract: Joel Embiid ($51.4M), Paul Reed ($7.7M ), Tyrese Maxey (To be extended)

Heading into the pivotal 2024 free agency period, the Philadelphia 76ers are strategically positioning themselves to secure the services of rising star Tyrese Maxey with a potential max contract extension. Maxey’s projected deal, expected to be in the ballpark of $207 million over five years, with an average annual value of $41.4 million, is indicative of the team’s commitment to building around their young core.

With this significant financial commitment to Maxey, the 76ers find themselves with approximately $40 million in cap space to address other roster needs. The timing is particularly crucial, given Joel Embiid’s unfortunate injury, which may sideline him for a substantial part of the remaining season. This predicament presents a unique opportunity for the 76ers to bolster their roster with a proven veteran and exceptional three-point shooter like Klay Thompson.

Thompson’s offensive prowess and championship pedigree make him an attractive prospect for the 76ers. Allocating a substantial portion of their available cap space – potentially in the range of $25-30 million annually – to acquire Thompson’s services could be a strategic move. His ability to stretch the floor and provide reliable scoring would not only compensate for Embiid’s absence but also fortify the team’s chances in a competitive Eastern Conference.

Creating a potential Big 3 with Maxey, Thompson, and the returning Embiid could elevate the 76ers to legitimate championship contenders. Despite their current 5th position in the standings at 32-22, the absence of Embiid, who was on an MVP-caliber trajectory before his injury, is expected to impact their performance.

Examining Thompson’s current season statistics – averaging 17.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists, with shooting percentages of 42.1% from the field and 37.3% from beyond the arc – underscores his consistent contributions. These numbers, combined with his experience and playoff success, make Klay Thompson an enticing prospect for the Philadelphia 76ers as they navigate the complexities of the upcoming offseason.

2. Indiana Pacers

Players under contract: Tyrese Haliburton ($35.2M), Myles Turner ($19.9M), Aaron Nesmith ($11.0M), TJ McConnell ($9.3M), Obi Toppin ($9.1M), Ben Mathurin ($7.2M), Jarace Walker ($6.3M), Jalen Smith ($5.4M), Isaiah Jackson ($4.4M)

The Indiana Pacers find themselves in a promising position with a nucleus of young talent, spearheaded by the emerging All-Star Tyrese Haliburton. Looking ahead to the upcoming offseason, the Pacers boast a salary cap flexibility of just over $40 million, providing ample room to make strategic moves and reinforce their roster.

Considering potential trade options, the Pacers could further expand their cap space by parting ways with secondary players such as Ben Sheppard, Andrew Nembhard, or the experienced TJ McConnell. This maneuver could open up additional financial avenues, enabling Indiana to not only retain key players like Pascal Siakam but also pursue high-profile additions, such as Klay Thompson.

A revamped lineup featuring Tyrese Haliburton, the promising Ben Mathurin, the seasoned Klay Thompson, the versatile Pascal Siakam, and the shot-blocking presence of Myles Turner presents an intriguing proposition. This potential starting five could position the Pacers as a top contender in the Eastern Conference. Even without Thompson this season, the Pacers currently hold the 6th seed in the East, signaling a team in the midst of growth and development.

The addition of Klay Thompson’s scoring ability and championship experience to an already talented roster could elevate the Pacers to new heights. With the right moves in the offseason, Indiana has the potential to transition from a playoff team to a genuine Eastern Conference powerhouse, ready to compete at the highest level.

3. Toronto Raptors

Players under contract: RJ Barrett ($25.7M), Bruce Brown ($23.0M, Team Option), Jakob Poeltl ($19.5M), Chris Boucher ($10.8M), Scottie Barnes ($10.1M), Immanuel Quickley ($6.1M), Gradey Dick ($4.7M), Jalen McDaniels ($4.7M), Ochai Agbaji ($4.3M)

The Toronto Raptors, in the midst of a strategic rebuilding phase, have undergone significant roster changes this season, parting ways with key contributors like OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam. However, as they navigate this transitional period, the potential addition of Klay Thompson looms large on the horizon, presenting an exciting opportunity to accelerate their resurgence.

With a substantial $61 million in cap space at their disposal and the potential to create more by exploring trade scenarios, the Raptors are well-positioned to pursue marquee free agents. Considering Klay Thompson’s proven track record as a premier shooter and champion, Toronto could offer him a contract in the range of $30 million per season, signaling a commitment to building a competitive roster.

An envisioned starting lineup featuring Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, Klay Thompson, Scottie Barnes, and Jakob Poeltl promises a potent mix of experience, scoring prowess, and youthful energy. This combination not only addresses immediate competitive needs but also lays the groundwork for sustained success and growth in the seasons to come.

The potential acquisition of Thompson transforms the Raptors into instant contenders in the Eastern Conference. Beyond the starting five, the Raptors have promising young talents in their rotation, and the financial flexibility to make further impactful moves in free agency, enhancing the overall depth and versatility of the team.

While Toronto has embraced a rebuilding narrative this season, the addition of Klay Thompson could expedite their return to prominence. The Raptors have the potential to emerge from this transitional phase not just as a playoff team but as a formidable force in the Eastern Conference, ready to make waves and compete for championships once again.

4. Orlando Magic

Players under contract: Jonathan Isaac ($17.4M), Cole Anthony ($12.9M), Paolo Banchero ($12.1M), Wendell Carter ($11.9M), Jalen Suggs ($9.1M), Mo Wagner ($8.0M), Anthony Black ($7,6M), Franz Wagner ($7.0M), Jett Howard ($5.2M), Caleb Houstan ($2.0M)

The Orlando Magic, armed with a roster brimming with young talent, have undergone a remarkable transformation this season, emerging as a competitive force in the Eastern Conference. Spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero, the Magic have shown promise but lack a veteran presence to propel them to the next level.

With a projected $67 million in cap space for the upcoming offseason and a foundation already in place, the Magic find themselves in a unique position to make a significant splash. Entering the postseason fray with a current 8th seed standing at 30-25, Orlando is in contention for a playoff berth. Adding a seasoned veteran like Klay Thompson to their ranks could be the catalyst that propels them deeper into the playoff picture.

Offering Thompson a contract in the ballpark of $30 million annually would not only solidify the Magic’s commitment to building a competitive roster but also address their need for an offensive spark. A starting lineup featuring Cole Anthony, Klay Thompson, Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero, and Wendell Carter Jr. presents a balanced mix of scoring, defensive prowess, and experience.

This lineup, coupled with a rotation featuring Jonathan Isaac, Jalen Suggs, Anthony Black, Mo Wagner, and others, positions the Magic as a defensive powerhouse. Klay Thompson’s offensive capabilities would provide the necessary firepower to complement their defensive strengths, creating a well-rounded team capable of making a significant impact in the playoffs.

As the Magic continue their ascent in the Eastern Conference, the addition of Klay Thompson could not only enhance their playoff aspirations but also establish them as a formidable force in the years to come. With a blend of youth, talent, and veteran leadership, Orlando has the potential to evolve into a team that commands respect on both ends of the floor.

5. Utah Jazz

Players under contract: John Collins ($26.5M), Collin Sexton ($18.1M), Lauri Markkanen ($18.0M), Jordan Clarkson ($14.0M), Taylor Hendricks ($5.8M), Keyonte George ($4.0M), Walker Kessler ($2.9M)

The Utah Jazz find themselves in the midst of a rebuilding phase, having made significant moves in the 2022 offseason by parting ways with stars Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert. Two seasons later, the Jazz, currently positioned at the 11th spot in the Western Conference, are still in contention for a play-in berth, showcasing resilience and potential amidst the reconstruction.

As they approach the upcoming offseason, the Jazz are armed with an estimated $55 million in cap space. Klay Thompson emerges as a pivotal piece in their quest to assemble a competitive roster with a focus on team cohesion. With a strategic approach to team building, the Jazz could allocate a significant portion of their cap space, approximately $30 million, to lure Thompson away from the Golden State Warriors, who may not be inclined to match such an offer.

Crafting a starting lineup featuring rising star Keyonte George, dynamic guard Collin Sexton, the experienced Klay Thompson, versatile big man Lauri Markkanen, and promising sophomore Walker Kessler presents a well-balanced mix of offensive firepower, outside shooting, defensive prowess, and adaptability. This quintet, supported by impactful players like Jordan Clarkson and John Collins coming off the bench, could elevate the Jazz back into the upper echelons of the competitive Western Conference.

Furthermore, Utah can strategically invest in cost-effective veteran players to bolster the final spots in their rotation. This approach ensures that the team not only remains financially prudent but also maximizes the potential for success in a highly competitive conference.

In essence, the combination of youth, experience, and strategic acquisitions, anchored by the addition of Klay Thompson, could position the Utah Jazz as a formidable force in the Western Conference, signaling a resurgence and the beginning of a new chapter in their journey back to prominence.