NBA star free agent reportedly willing to sign team-friendly contract to join Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers are seeking out star talent in free agency, but it could come at a much cheaper price than expected.

It's almost a certainty Klay Thompson's time with the Golden State Warriors is over, and the Lakers, along with LA Clippers, are emerging as strong suitors. Yahoo Sports' Jake Fischer recently reported Thompson could sign a lesser value contract in order to land in LA.

"And it’s shaping to be a fascinating mid-level market," Fischer wrote. Especially with word circulating among league personnel that Thompson could be willing to take that amount in order to join the Lakers or Clippers."

Thompson averaged 17.9 points on solid efficiency last season, proving himself worthy of more than the mid-level exception (roughly a maximum of $12 million per year). However, if Thompson desires to pass his long-time teammates Stephen Curry and Draymond Green in championship rings, signing with either LA organization is the way to go.