Klay Thompson could rejoin Warriors if LeBron James makes this NBA move

Klay Thompson could soon find himself back in a Warriors jersey if LeBron James makes a specific NBA move this offseason.

What happened?

LeBron James' free-agency choice could set off a chain reaction that brings Klay Thompson back to the Golden State Warriors. The four-time NBA champion is weighing his options after the Los Angeles Lakers' disappointing finish in the 2026 playoffs. Sources close to the situation say James is considering a return to the Warriors, where he spent his first 19 seasons before joining the Lakers in 2018.

If James opts for Golden State, it would create cap space for the Warriors to pursue other targets-and could also open the door for Thompson to re-sign with his original franchise. Thompson, 34, has spent his entire 13-year career with the Warriors but missed most of the past two seasons due to injuries and personal leave.

Why it matters for Klay Thompson

A Warriors reunion would give Thompson a chance to chase another championship with a core that already includes Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. The trio formed the backbone of Golden State's dynasty that won four titles between 2015 and 2022. Thompson's future has been uncertain since he left the court in Game 6 of the 2023 Western Conference semifinals with a torn ACL.

Golden State's front office has repeatedly expressed interest in bringing Thompson back, but his high salary has been a sticking point. If James clears cap space by leaving the Lakers, the Warriors could absorb Thompson's contract without sacrificing key role players. That scenario would allow Thompson to finish his career where it began.

What comes next?

The NBA free-agency moratorium begins on July 1, with signings permitted after July 6. James is expected to announce his decision within the next two weeks, while Thompson's representatives have not yet scheduled meetings with other teams. The Warriors, meanwhile, are preparing for a summer of roster reshaping regardless of James' choice.

If Thompson does return, he would join Curry and Green in a potential farewell tour for the franchise's core. The Warriors have not yet re-signed Thompson for 2026-27, leaving his future in limbo. His next move could come as soon as next week, depending on James' announcement.

How this changes Golden State's plans

Golden State's front office has spent the past two seasons rebuilding around Curry and Green while waiting for Thompson's return. His potential comeback would force a rethink of the team's long-term timeline. The Warriors have already added young talent like Trayce Jackson-Davis and Brandin Podziemski, but Thompson's presence would shift the locker-room dynamic.

A reunion with James would also reignite debates about whether Golden State can contend immediately. The Warriors finished 50-32 in 2026, losing in the first round to the Sacramento Kings. Adding James and Thompson could vault them back into championship contention-but only if both stay healthy.