"They were 28th in three-pointers attempted" - Stephen A. Smith on why Klay Thompson overlooked the LA Lakers

As Klay Thompson prepared to leave the Golden State Warriors after his decade-long tenure, the LA Lakers and Dallas Mavericks were amongst the frontrunners to land his services. Ultimately, the reigning Western Conference Champs landed the five-time All-Star on a 3-year,$50 million deal.

The decision raised eyebrows, considering how LeBron James personally reached out to him and was willing to take a pay cut to land him on the team roster. Moreover, with dad - Mychal Thompson's association with the Purple and Gold, Klay seemed to have all the reasons to join his hometown team.

However, for Stephen A. Smith , there were multiple reasons why the four-time NBA Champ overlooked the 2020 NBA Champs.

Stephen A. on Klay not joining the Lakers

Speaking on his podcast, the 56-year-old analyst suggested that California's high tax rates and the Lakers' playing style — proven by their being the third-worst 3-point-attempting team in the 2023-24 campaign most likely deterred Klay from signing with them.

"The fact that the Lakers, while they were like top-10 in three-point shooting percentage, they were 28th in three-pointers attempted," Smith said . "Might be wondering whether or not he's gonna get the ball from an Anthony Davis or LeBron James enough."

Smith also posited that the intense rivalry between the Warriors and Lakers may have influenced Thompson's decision. On the other hand, the Dallas Mavericks presented a more suitable environment for his skillset. While the Lakers' 3-point shooters typically create their own open looks, the Mavs have Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic working their way into the rim to attract defenders to create open shots from the wings - a scenario in which Klay should thrive.

More importantly, the Mavs attempted the second most 3-pointers in the last season, indicating how Klay could improve their 13th-ranked efficiency. Additionally, not only is the 6'6" shooting guard a non-ball-dominant player, but his long-range shooting proficiency is what can take Dallas over the hump next season.

Mavericks are close

Even ESPN's Brian Windhorst recently noted that with the LA native joining the Mavericks over the Lakers, he believes Jason Kidd's team is on the verge of winning a championship.

This move allows Klay to silence his critics by potentially securing his fifth championship ring. Conversely, the Lakers' potential remains uncertain, especially given the unpredictable atmosphere following the appointment of JJ Redick as their new head coach.

That being said, it is clear that after missing out on Klay, the Purple and Gold must also build a strong team quickly. They must act quickly to return to championship contention, as other teams in the West are definitely getting stronger.

Related: Draymond breaks his silence on Klay leaving the Warriors: "All great things must come to an end"