Lakers rumors: LeBron called Klay Thompson to start NBA free agency

The Lakers’ pursuit of Klay Thompson has been made possible in large part by LeBron James’ decision to take a pay cut and enable the use of the mid-level exception. It would make sense, then, that LeBron would be at the forefront of his recruitment as well.

Although Thompson hadn’t immediately decided who his next team would be at the start of free agency, LeBron did call him to ask if he wanted to pitch the Lakers, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.

This would be business as usual for any star recruiting a free agent of Thompson’s caliber. The only notable thing about this is that LeBron at least claimed he had no involvement in the Lakers’ coaching search, so participating in free agency pitches is a change.

Additionally, Woj noted that the decision would not come on Sunday and would likely last until Monday. The sign-and-trade aspect of this keeps options open for the Mavericks and Clippers, despite both making late Sunday signings for Naji Marshall and Derrick Jones Jr., respectively.

But the options are getting a little narrower at this point. Coupled with Jonas Valančiūnas signing with the Wizards and some of the top presumed options that would be available for the MLE being picked up.

This means one thing: Break everyone up to recruit Klay now. It’s not an all-or-nothing deal, but there’s not much left if he misses something. So call up Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and have them reminisce about watching Klay with Mychal in practice as a kid. Have Shaq talk to him about cementing his legacy by playing in the purple and gold. Spout the overused clichés you need to land him.

You’re the Lakers. Call in some favors.

You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude.