Free agency is set to begin in just a matter of days, but it’s still trade rumors that are dominating NBA circles right now. In particular, where Paul George will land remains the biggest question mark in the league.
It is well known that he ultimately wants to wind up with the Los Angeles Lakers, but whether that comes this season or next is unknown. Regardless, he may have already begun recruiting potential teammates.
Former Golden State Warriors guard Kelenna Azubuike hosts a radio show on 95.7 The Game and said that George has reached out to Klay Thompson about playing together in Los Angeles:
"He has definitely has put in a call to Klay Thompson and he would like to play with him in LA." -Kelenna Azubuike on Paul George & LA.
— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) June 27, 2017
Thompson, son of former Lakers great Mychal Thompson, is under contract with the Warriors for two more seasons. Like George, he is from Southern California, and is one of the NBA’s best two-way players.
Many have speculated that Thompson could choose to leave the Warriors when his contract is up. He is viewed by many as being less important than the likes of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Kevin Durant.
Additionally, with Durant and Curry set to get paid this offseason, there may not be enough money to pay Thompson when that time comes.
George and Thompson on the wing together with the Lakers would be an outstanding match as both are capable of locking down the opposition and raining threes from deep.
Of course, this is all speculation and there have even been recent reports that George may be willing to stay in Cleveland long-term should he be traded there. Many players have been linked to the Lakers in recent years, but fans won’t feel good about it until one is officially wearing purple and gold.