In a surprising development that could shake up the Western Conference landscape, NBA insiders are reporting that Dallas Mavericks GM Nico Harrison is exploring a blockbuster trade that would send Golden State Warriors sharpshooter Klay Thompson to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for rising guard Austin Reaves — a deal that could also involve the Mavericks as key facilitators.
While the deal is still in the early stages and far from finalized, league sources suggest Harrison’s interest in orchestrating this move stems from strategic roster realignment, long-term salary flexibility, and a desire to shake up the team’s core around Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving.
Why Would the Mavericks Get Involved?
At first glance, a trade involving Thompson and Reaves seems like a direct Lakers-Warriors swap. But according to sources close to the front office, Dallas is eyeing a potential sign-and-trade scenario involving Klay Thompson, with the Mavericks acting as a third party to facilitate salary cap movement or even acquire one of the players — possibly Thompson — as part of a larger roster reshuffle.
Here’s what’s driving Harrison’s interest:
1. Veteran Leadership and Shooting
Harrison is reportedly intrigued by what Klay Thompson could bring to the Mavericks — even in the latter stages of his career. His playoff pedigree, elite shooting ability, and championship experience could be the missing piece to take Dallas deeper into postseason contention. With Dončić handling the ball and Kyrie creating off the dribble, Thompson’s off-ball excellence could be a natural fit.
“Klay may not be the same defender he once was, but he doesn’t need the ball to be effective — that’s the kind of spacing Dallas needs,” one source noted.
2. Austin Reaves’ Rising Value
Meanwhile, Austin Reaves’ breakout performance with the Lakers has made him one of the most coveted young guards in the league. The Mavericks have been quietly monitoring his development, and sources say Harrison views Reaves as a “glue guy” who can score, facilitate, and play gritty defense — all while being under team control for several more years on a favorable contract.
If the Lakers were to acquire Klay, they’d likely be giving up Reaves in return — something Dallas might be hoping to capitalize on by offering the right mix of picks, contracts, or role players to sweeten the deal.
3. Klay’s Rocky Future with Golden State
Klay Thompson is headed into unrestricted free agency this summer after a difficult season with the Warriors. Despite his legendary résumé, Golden State appears hesitant to offer a long-term, high-dollar extension, especially given their luxury tax concerns and shifting team direction. That opens the door for a sign-and-trade scenario, which the Mavericks and Lakers could potentially exploit.
“Klay wants to compete and win — if the Warriors aren’t offering that, other contenders will,” an NBA insider told ESPN.
4. The Lakers Factor
The Lakers have long admired Thompson, especially with his family ties to Los Angeles and his fit next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis. A backcourt of D’Angelo Russell (if re-signed) and Klay would offer spacing and veteran savvy, though it would cost them Reaves — a fan favorite and a key contributor.
Whether Lakers GM Rob Pelinka is willing to make that move remains to be seen, but pressure to make win-now moves around LeBron could force bold decisions.
The Bottom Line
While the trade is still speculative and hinges on several moving parts — including free agency outcomes, player willingness, and cap logistics — the report signals an aggressive approach from Nico Harrison and the Mavericks front office. Whether it results in Klay Thompson wearing a Mavs jersey or Reaves landing in Dallas, one thing is clear: Dallas isn’t content running it back — big moves are on the table.
