Insider reveals why Klay Thompson chose Mavericks over Lakers

Klay Thompson's free agency decision reportedly came down to the Lakers and Mavericks once teams such as Magic, 76ers and Clippers bowed out of his sweepstakes.

Having grown up a Lakers fan, Thompson had ample reason to join the franchise that his father, Mychal Thompson, once represented. Ultimately, he chose Dallas for two reasons: state income taxes in Texas and the team's recent trip to the NBA Finals.

According to insider Adrian Wojnarowski, Thompson closely watched the Mavs in their playoff run and ascertained areas where he could help the Luka Doncic-led squad.

"He saw where he'd help them and fit in there. This is a franchise that could definitely use some shooting," Woj said on "NBA Today" on ESPN . "The idea of playing with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving — it made a lot of sense to him. The Lakers were intriguing to Klay Thompson. His dad played there; he lives in L.A. and grew up a Lakers fan. But, financially, the differences between Texas and California played a part in it."

Thompson signed a three-year, $50 million deal to join the Mavericks, who created just enough cap room by shipping out Tim Hardaway Jr. and Josh Green at the start of free agency.

Chris Haynes said the Lakers were willing to offer Thompson a four-year, $80 million deal after attempting a sign-and-trade that would have sent D'Angelo Russell to the Warriors. However, Golden State rejected the idea, paving the way for the Mavericks to lock up Thompson.

The Magic and Sixers were able to offer Thompson significantly more than Dallas. The veteran sharpshooter's decision was not dictated by just finances.