Klay Thompson at a Crossroads: Trade Rumors Swirl as Mavericks Veteran Hits Milestone

DALLAS, January 19, 2026 – Klay Thompson’s tenure with the Dallas Mavericks appears increasingly uncertain as the NBA trade deadline approaches. The veteran sharpshooter, who recently scored his 17,000th career point, finds himself at the center of widespread speculation, with potential destinations including a return to the Golden State Warriors or a long-rumored move to the Los Angeles Lakers.

A Historic Week Amidst Turmoil

Thompson, 35, has experienced a resurgence in his shooting form during a difficult season for the Mavericks, who hold a 17-26 record. In a recent victory over the Utah Jazz, he scored 23 points, including the basket that pushed him past the 17,000-point milestone for his career. Just days earlier, he passed Damian Lillard to move into fourth place on the NBA’s all-time three-pointers made list after a 26-point performance. Despite these personal achievements, the Mavericks’ position near the bottom of the Western Conference has fueled major roster change rumors.

The Mavericks’ Fire Sale

According to multiple reports, the Dallas front office is open to moving several veteran players as they look to rebuild around rookie sensation Cooper Flagg. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported last month that the team is exploring trade markets for Thompson, Anthony Davis, Daniel Gafford, and D’Angelo Russell. With Davis sidelined for six weeks with a hand injury, trade talks have cooled on the star big man, potentially increasing the focus on moving other veterans like Thompson before the February 5 deadline.

The Lakers’ Long-Standing Interest

If a trade does not materialize, a contract buyout has emerged as a distinct possibility. According to longtime Lakers voice John Ireland of ESPN LA, Thompson’s representation would make the Lakers their first call if he and the Mavericks agree to a buyout. “Klay did not sign up for a rebuild,” Ireland stated. “And if Klay got bought out, I have it on good authority that the first call his agent would make would be to the Lakers. Because he would love to finish his career here.” This potential move would fulfill the long-held wish of Thompson’s father, former Lakers champion Mychal Thompson, who publicly expressed disappointment when his son chose Dallas over Los Angeles in 2024 free agency.

A Warriors Reunion on the Table?

Another emotionally charged scenario involves a trade back to the Golden State Warriors, where Thompson won four championships. Several mock trades have circulated, with a common framework sending Thompson and center Daniel Gafford to Golden State in exchange for young forward Jonathan Kuminga and salary filler. Analysts suggest such a move would give the Warriors a needed rim protector and a sentimental reunion of their championship core, while providing Dallas with a young asset to pair with Flagg.

Klay Thompson: 2025-26 Season at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Klay Thompson’s contract situation?

Thompson is in the second year of a three-year, $50 million deal signed in 2024. He is owed approximately $17.4 million for the 2026-27 season, a figure that has given some teams pause in trade discussions.

Why do the Lakers make sense for Thompson?

Beyond his father’s history with the franchise, the Lakers rank in the bottom third of the league in three-point shooting. Thompson, even in a reduced role, could provide elite spacing alongside Luka Doncic and LeBron James. His reported preference to stay on the West Coast also aligns with Los Angeles.

Could he really return to the Warriors?

While a trade is complex, it is considered a plausible basketball move. The Warriors need frontcourt help, and the Mavericks seek young talent. A deal would hinge on Dallas’s valuation of Jonathan Kuminga and Golden State’s willingness to take on Thompson’s contract for a sentimental reunion.

What did his father say about him joining the Lakers?

In 2024, after Klay chose Dallas, Mychal Thompson said, “I’m really disappointed. I was hoping that he would be a Laker. And it was close… But you know me, I was hoping and praying he’d finish his career with the Lakers.”