Nuggets News: Klay Thompson Dream in Free Agency Ends Despite Viral Denver Sighting as $5 Million Move Dictates Future

It is finally happening! Following months of will he or will he not conversations, it looks like we might have to get used to not seeing Klay Thompson wearing the Warriors uniform starting next season. With his five-year $189 million deal coming to an end, both parties have failed to reach an agreement to extend Klay’s contract. Reportedly, the Warriors are lacing up to lose the four-time champ in free agency. Amid this massive update, his recent sighting in Denver sparked rumors about Klay possibly choosing the Nuggets as his next destination, but their financial constraints might have ended those hopes.

With free agency looming, fans were surprised when they spotted Klay enjoying his off-season in Mile High City. Sure enough, murmurs began of him joining forces with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray to pursue another title. Moreover, joining the Nuggets has always seemed like a pipe dream for Klay and with KCP declining his $15.4 million player option and possibly becoming a free agent, Klay could be the perfect replacement to fill that void.

However, it looks like a far-fetched dream for both parties because the Nuggets do not have the available cap space to make a viable offer to Thompson. Already set to pay $123 million in salary to their three stars, Murray, Jokic and Porter next season, there is not enough money left to go around for free agents. While the Nuggets still have the rights to match any offer other suitors make to KCP, they are not expected to do so because it’ll put them close to crossing the second apron of luxury tax. But even if KCP departs, they will only have the taxpayer mid-level exception to offer Klay, which would mean nearly $5.18 million annual salary. And Klay is unlikely to take such a massive pay cut considering he had reportedly already declined a two-year $48 million offer from the Warriors last year and is likely looking for a three-year deal paying nearly $20 million annually. So, Klay might not end up in Mile High City after all.

Where could Klay Thompson land next season?

While joining the Nuggets seems impossible, Klay does not need to worry too much because the Lakers, Mavs, and Clippers have been projected as his next possible destinations. With LA being his hometown and his father having played there for many years, Klay has always wanted to wear a Lakers uniform if not the Warriors. Moreover, he was also intrigued by the idea of sharing the court with LeBron, a player he has battled several times during the prime of his career. If not the Lakers, Klay could also get an offer from the Clippers. Dealing with the possibility of Paul George leaving in free agency, Steve Ballmer could use a sharpshooter like Klay to still remain a title contender.

Meanwhile, veteran Insider Marc Stein recently revealed that there is also strong mutual interest between Klay and the Mavs. Making an amazing run to the NBA Finals this season, the Mavs seem to be only one piece away from winning it all next year. And Klay could be that missing piece. While Luka and Kyrie take care of business inside the paint, Klay’s presence will give them an option to pass the ball to an elite shooter whenever double teamed. Even though Klay’s game declined this season, he still averaged nearly eighteen points while shooting 38.7% from deep range, which is better than most shooters in the league. So, whichever team Klay goes to, he can instantly turn into a key player for them and increase their chances of winning a championship.

Before you go, do not forget to check out what Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato has to say about the alleged Shaq and Kobe Lakers beef. Keep checking this space for more such updates.