LeBron James reportedly called Klay Thompson at start of free agency

The Lakers’ pursuit of Klay Thompson reportedly included a call from LeBron James at the start of free agency.

The Lakers' pursuit of Klay Thompson is made possible largely because LeBron James decided to take a pay cut and opened up the use of the mid-level exception. It would make sense, then, that LeBron is also at the forefront of his recruitment.

While Thompson did not immediately decide on his next team at the start of free agency, there was a phone call from LeBron to pitch the Lakers, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.

This would be business as usual for any star recruiting a free agent of Thompson’s caliber. The only notable part of this is that LeBron at least claimed he wasn’t involved in the Lakers coaching search, so taking part in the free agency pitches is a change.

In addition, Woj also noted that the decision would not come on Sunday and would likely continue into Monday. The sign-and-trade aspect of this keeps options open for the Mavericks and Clippers despite each making signings late on Sunday for Naji Marshall and Derrick Jones Jr., respectively.

But the options are dwindling a bit at this point. Paired with Jonas Valančiūnas signing with the Wizards and several of the options most assumed would be available for the MLE are getting snapped up.

This means just one thing: break out everyone to recruit Klay at this point. It’s not an all-or-nothing type of deal, but there isn’t much left if he misses out. So call up Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and have them reminisce about seeing Klay as a child with Mychal at practice. Have Shaq talk to him about cementing his legacy by playing in the purple and gold. Spew whatever overused cliches you need to land him.

You’re the Lakers. Call in some favors.

You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude.