NBA Rumors: Warriors' Klay Thompson, Magic Have 'No Traction' Ahead of Free Agency

A future in Orlando does not appear likely for Klay Thompson.

Anthony Slater of The Athletic reported that Thompson and the Orlando Magic have had "no traction" in terms of a potential free agent contract and that some believe Thompson returning to the Golden State Warriors may be "inevitable."

"There has been no traction between Thompson and the Orlando Magic, according to league sources, despite some initial mutual interest," Slater wrote. "Other cap space teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and Oklahoma City Thunder could theoretically enter the mix. But Thompson's best offers may end up smaller in money and shorter in years than many predicted or expected, leading some to presume that'll lead back to an inevitable reunion with the Warriors at a rate both sides are comfortable."

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Thompson has spent his entire career with the Warriors, winning four NBA Championships and earning five All-Star selections and two All-NBA designations.

While a return to Golden State would likely be preferable for Thompson, it may be difficult to execute. He is set to hit free agency, and the Warriors currently have negative cap space, per Spotrac.

There were rumors that Golden State had offered Thompson a two-year contract, although Slater reported that there wasn't currently an official offer on the table.

If he hits free agency, Orlando could be an intriguing option. Thompson averaged 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 77 games in 2023-24. While he may not be producing as well as he did in his prime, he could be a strong veteran scoring presence for a youthful Magic team.

Orlando went 47-35 this past season and reached the postseason for the first time since 2019-20. The young core centers around Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, and adding a player like Thompson could be exactly what the Magic need to take a step forward.

While there is currently no traction on the contract front, it could be something to look for during the early days of free agency.