No transition is ever easy, but when it comes after 13 years it’s often painful. Klay Thompson spent his entire career with the Golden State Warriors until this offseason. Having memories of building a dynasty from the ground up, the break up had to be painful. Even though he found peace in his decision, it couldn’t have been easy coming to terms with not playing alongside some of his closest comrades. Luckily, his summer helped him forget the turmoil, thanks to some assistance from Tom Brady and Derek Jeter.

Recently, the legendary Yankees shortstop posted a series of events from his memorable summer. It included a holiday with his wife, other festivities, and also a light-hearted time with the former Bay area sharpshooter. Klay Thompson reposted the frame on his Instagram stories, terming it to be the “best summer ever”.

In spite of the emotional breakup with the Warriors franchise, Jeter seems to have lifted his spirits during the summertime. And he wasn’t alone. The picture, from Michael Rubin’s annual Fourth of July bash, might not have featured Brady, but the revered QB was present. He also made an appearance, showing mellow support for Klay Thompson.

He readily agreed with his sentiments, writing “Looks like a great summer to me” underneath Jeter’s Instagram post. Of course, the veteran Brady is aware of the sorrow when switching teams. He too, after spending 20 years with the New England Patriots switched sides due to his deprived relation with then coach Bill Bellicheck.

Similarly, Klay Thompson also diminished in the eyes of Steve Kerr, the same man who entrusted him to win four championships. However, their bond never grew sour. The ‘Splash Brother’, due to his difficulties was projected to come off the bench next season. Apart from the demotion, the situation had also weighed on him. So he wanted a fresh start, and his aim is to do something Brady did.

Klay Thompson hopes to do what Tim Brady did

Tom Brady was 42 years old when he decided to part ways with the Patriots. With six Super Bowls, the sensational quarterback didn’t have anything to prove to anyone. But he still had a chip on his shoulder. He had to prove he could do it by being away from Bellicheck’s system. His move to Tampa initially didn’t attract much attention. It was only when he led them to a victory over Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs that Brady rose to another stratosphere among NFL legends.

Klay Thompson looks to do the same. After 13 years of playing with Steph and Draymond, he is after a new challenge. It’s away from the Bay area expectations and provides him with a new role. But his reason of joining is simple. He feels he can be the difference maker for the Mavericks. a team that just made the NBA Finals.

“I might not be able to run as fast or jump as high, but I can still knock down open shots, and I think I can be that missing piece for them. They can’t send as many double teams. They got to worry about playing the backside and giving up wide-open looks,” he said in his press conference.

Playing besides two high-quality scorers in Luka Doncic and Irving, Thompson will probably have a marginalized role. But his shots and efficiency could end up being the margin between the Mavericks’ success. If he fits the mold and regains his confidence, the Mavs could contend for the title yet again this season.

All that matters is how Klay Thompson looks come next season. A relaxing summer is a great way to begin.