The Dallas Mavericks will hit the Chase Center on Tuesday, November 12. This means Captain Klay is coming home. Klay Thompson will return to San Francisco in a new suit, this time as a rival. However, the Dubs and Dub Nation are planning something special for their legend’s return. Warriors CEO Joe Lacob is excited for fans to salute Klay Thompson through hats, as he returns to his home arena. But, there might be an underlying concern, that Lacob is missing out.

Splash Brother Stephen Curry will greet Klay Thompson, and fans will salute the 4x NBA champ by removing their Captain hats. The Captain hat will be a nod to the commutes that Thompson would often make to Chase Center on his 37-foot fishing vessel. And well, Draymond Green believes, Thompson is “going to cry” on seeing the love his former team and fanbase have for him. Well, NBA insider, Brian Windhorst stands with a different opinion.

“Klay Thompson emphasized his gratitude for his time with the Warriors,” informed Windhorst. “But it’s no secret how uncomfortable it was, especially over the last year. He basically decided that he felt disrespected and it was time to move on. So, I do think it might be a little awkward because they obviously want to celebrate him four times.”

On Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective, he further expressed that he isn’t sure how Klay will perceive the ‘warm welcome’. “First off, it’s a sponsored element; there’s a healthcare company that has its name on the hat. Secondly, it’s got a Warriors logo on it. Yeah. And they don’t expect him to put one on, do they? Like at least not right now,” he opined. But, the Mavericks’ shooting guard went out of his way to make it clear, his exact words were, “I’m so grateful.” However, there is a chance that Joe Lacob’s efforts could upset his former star. And when it does, that is if it does, how the situation unfolds will be an interesting watch.

The 34-year-old 5x NBA All-Star felt the frustration of injuries and falling out of rotation in the 2023-24 season. Therefore he opted to move out of the Golden State Warriors’ shadow after more than a decade to join the Dallas Mavericks. Klay Thompson is finding his rhythm and pace with the Mavs. It’s safe to say, in his new journey in a new jersey, he’s doing brilliantly. However, does it not affect him to see his ex-team do so well after he left?

Klay Thompson’s exit and the Warriors’ brilliant stint this season could be an odd pair to digest

Amidst the speculations on emotional grounds, the NBA insider believes: “It’s going to be a very nice moment. They’re going to give him a gigantic standing ovation.” But, Windhorst wonders “if there’s a part of Klay that stings to see the Warriors playing so well.” Over the years, Klay Thompson formed the perfect trio with Steph Curry and Draymond Green at the Warriors. The ‘unbeatable three’ have gifted Dub Nation unforgettable moments that fans still cherish today. However, the last few seasons for Captain Klay weren’t particularly glorious.

His injury woes falling out of rotation amidst a championship-winning season in 2022 and the constant feeling of disrespect marred the 4x champ’s sentiments. Meanwhile, the Warriors have been on an insane run this season. With 8 out of 10 wins so far, the Bay Area is leading the Western Conference points table. Meanwhile, the Mavericks stand eleventh with an equal number of wins and losses, 5-5. But, Klay Thompson has been on a good start with the Mavs with an average of 13.2 ppg so far. Well, he is settling down with Dallas’ style, and being a hooper he is sure to adapt soon.

Klay Thompson’s return to the Chase Center will be emotional. Despite his new role in Dallas, his Warriors legacy remains strong. The Dubs’ hot start this season may sting for Klay, but he’s finding his rhythm with the Mavs. As both teams rise, the next chapter of Thompson’s career promises excitement and intrigue. Amidst the doubts on whether Joe Lacob is doing the right thing by honoring Thompson, the most-awaited homecoming stands in patience.