If you’re a hardcore member of the Dubs nation, look away now. Did you really think the whole Klay Thompson thing was nothing but a big nightmare? Well, guess what? It wasn’t, and earlier today he shed the last bit of his GSW skin.
With his chapter closed on the Bay Arena, Klay Thompson is ready to look into the future. After a disrespectful end to his storied run with the Dubs, Thompson penned a 3-year $50 million contract and starting next season will be a road to salvation for the 4-time NBA Champion, at least that is exactly what he is aiming for.
During his Mavericks’ introductory press conference, Klay Thompson detailed his mindset for coming to Dallas. When asked about why he chose the Mavs, Thompson said, “Dallas was so attractive because of the young players they have, the style of play, the world-class treatment these players get from the organization, and a beautiful city that loves their hoops.” Reading under the lines that the organization treats its players to a world-class standard says a lot about his feelings about his previous employers on the West Coast. But he quickly made amends to supposed the public dig at the Warriors and further added, “I’m very grateful for my time at Golden State, but I just felt like moving on could just re-energize me and do something special for the rest of my career.”
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Klay Thompson on why he picked the Mavericks: "Dallas was so attractive because of the young players they have, the style of play, the world-class treatment these players get from the organization, and a beautiful city that loves their hoops…"
— Grant Afseth (@GrantAfseth) July 9, 2024
“Coming here is just such a fresh start and feeling wanted again, and I bring great value,” Thompson explained. At the Warriors, Thompson was reduced to a bench role, which added to the feeling of being unwanted. Now that he is in Dallas, he is fully focused on sharing the same dream with Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic for bringing the first title to Dallas since 2011. “I just saw myself fitting in well with this team and this personnel… They play for each other, and that’s all I needed to see. There was mutual interest, and that’s why I’m here,” Klay added by expressing his first impression of the Mavs’ Finals run last season. But what should the Mavs expect of Klay Thompson? Let’s crunch the numbers.
What does Klay Thompson bring to Mavs?
In his 13-year career, Klay Thompson made a name for himself as one of the most clutch players in the game today. Sure, the unfortunate record of failing to open his account marked his last game for the Warriors, but throughout the season, he shot 38.7 % 3-pts which was below his career average of 41.3%. But Thompson is confident of his abilities. “You still can’t leave me open. I can guard… know I can help this team, whether it’s through the knowledge I’ve gained or big-scoring nights. I just know I can still be a very good player in this league,” the former Splash Brother said to the gathered media.
What’s your perspective on:
Did Klay Thompson just destroy the Warriors' dynasty by joining the Mavericks? What's your take?
Have an interesting take?
Klay Thompson on the impact he can make: "You still can't leave me open. I can guard… I know I can help this team, whether it's through the knowledge I've gained or big-scoring nights. I just know I can still be a very good player in this league."
— Grant Afseth (@GrantAfseth) July 9, 2024
The franchise also would like to see that, but Michael Finley, the VP of Mavs basketball operations, made it clear what they are expecting from Klay. “We talked about this at dinner, and it wasn’t about the basketball. I talked to him more about the experience and the veteran leadership that he can bring to the team…And I think with Klay, he can bring that experience, that knowledge for the young players, as well as Luca and Kai. So experience is key, and I think he brings that to the table, Finley told the press.
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Last season was historically Thompson’s worst season statistically since his rookie days. He averaged only 17.9 points last season with 3.3 RPG and 2.3 APG, far underperforming his usual high standards. But with a change in scenery and system around him, Klay might get back to the level best everyone is expecting, the one he expects of himself as well.
Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what brand maker, Leonard Armato, had to say about the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe, check out this video
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Did Klay Thompson just destroy the Warriors' dynasty by joining the Mavericks? What's your take?