DONE DEAL: Mavericks sign all-time great shooter

Rumors: Mavericks and Lakers Compete to Sign All-Time Great Shooter

The Dallas Mavericks made a surprising move on the opening night of free agency. Despite expectations that the Mavs would prioritize re-signing Derrick Jones Jr., as stated by Nico Harrison, they instead signed Naji Marshall to a three-year deal, shocking many. Jones Jr. switching agents just before free agency complicated things, leading the Mavericks to pivot to Marshall, a move that had been heavily rumored.

With Marshall now secured on a three-year, $27 million contract, what’s next for Dallas?

Rumors: Mavericks and Lakers Compete to Sign Klay Thompson

NBA insider Marc Stein reports that the Mavericks remain focused on acquiring Klay Thompson, aiming to complete a sign-and-trade using their Tim Hardaway Jr. trade exception. Stein explains that Dallas initially hoped to sign both Thompson and re-sign Jones Jr., but with Jones Jr. off the table, the Mavericks now need to outmaneuver the Los Angeles Lakers to secure Thompson. Jake Fischer elaborated on this during the Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, noting that Thompson is deciding between Dallas and the Lakers.

Both teams are pursuing a sign-and-trade for Thompson, and it has come down to these two. Thompson could choose to join Dallas for a shot at winning the NBA Finals next year or stay in California and join the Lakers. The decision is challenging, as both options offer significant benefits. Missing out on Thompson would be a major setback for the Mavericks, especially since Tobias Harris, another target, signed with the Detroit Pistons.

If the Mavericks manage to land Thompson, they would be securing one of the best shooters in history. Thompson has averaged 19.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game while shooting 41.3 percent from three-point range. He would quickly become a fan favorite in Dallas. A starting lineup featuring Hall of Famers Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, and Thompson would be formidable. Doncic, known for creating open looks, would complement Thompson perfectly. Now, it’s up to Thompson to decide between the Mavericks and the Lakers.

Dallas has been linked to Thompson since April, and the waiting game begins to see where he will go.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on the Dallas Mavericks and their pursuit of Klay Thompson.