Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James. Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

LeBron James began recruiting efforts as soon as free agency began

By Jeff Smith | Last updated Jul 1, 2024 9:33 AM ET

The rumblings about LeBron James's willingness to take a pay cut to add a key player in free agency have only intensified since NBA free agency began on Sunday evening. And if the move James made when the clock struck 6 p.m. ET is any indication, former Golden State Warriors sharpshooter Klay Thompson may be his preference.

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, James reportedly called Thompson immediately when free agency opened (h/t ClutchPoints).

"I'm told LeBron James called Klay Thompson right when free agency opened... These conversations, this negotiation will go into tomorrow. There probably will not be a resolution tonight, Wojnarowski said on "SportsCenter."

"I'm told LeBron James called Klay Thompson right when free agency opened... These conversations, this negotiation will go into tomorrow. There probably will not be a resolution tonight."

ESPN's Woj on LeBron James recruiting Klay to the Lakers pic.twitter.com/9EXQdg4HBF
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) July 1, 2024

It's not all that surprising, especially considering how well Thompson would likely fit alongside James and Anthony Davis. While there's no shortage of competition, the Lakers remain in the thick of the push to sign the 34-year-old guard.

But as free agency rolls on, the Lakers may need to put together a serious push and strong pitch for Thompson. Wojnarowski reported the guard is set to meet with the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers, along with the Lakers.

Jeff Smith

Jeff Smith has extensive experience as a sports writer and editor, including stops at ESPN, FOX Sports, CBS Sports, USA TODAY SMG, and Heavy. Jeff's passion for sports content starts and finishes with writing and he's grateful to be able to work in that field on a daily basis.

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