Mavericks News: New Leadership Duo at Dallas Outmaneuvered Rob Pelinka for Klay Thompson Deal

Klay Thompson, the longtime Warrior finally left the Bay, as the Sea Captain will now be teaming up with the Mavs. The rumors around his next destination were much anticipated, however the focus was more inclined toward the Lakers. While joining LeBron James and company would’ve been a sight to see, Thompson’s decision to join Dallas was quite optimal. Of course, Luka and Irving led the franchise to its first Finals appearance after 13 years, but their postseason run wasn’t the only achievement to consider. But why would he not follow in his father’s footsteps?  The Lakers even offered Thompson a bigger number than the Mavericks.

Someone like Klay who’s been in California for over a decade knows well enough about taxes. Even higher pay wouldn’t have helped him with the Californian taxes if he had signed with the Lakers. Whereas Texas is the complete opposite of the Western state, with much lower taxes. On the other hand, the Mavs’ GM and head coach Jason Kidd got the best out of the Lakers when they presented Klay with the opportunity.

Brian Windhorst elaborated on why Dallas was a better option, saying, “I know that the Lakers are a big draw because they’re his hometown team. But they’re not comparable to where the Mavericks are from competing for championships. The Mavericks are right there on the doorstep. And they were here in LA, with Nico Harrison, their general manager, with Jason Kidd their head coach and they presented him the very clear plan of how they were going to use him. And as you mentioned, there’s clearly a hole, exactly where he would fit in as a spot-up three-point shooter.”.

The sign and trade included a three-year $50 million deal given by the Warriors in exchange for two second-round picks from Dallas. Whereas the Lakers were willing to offer him $20 million a year, which is his market value. Not only that but they also offered D’Angelo Russell in the sign-and-trade deal. D-Lo is a former member of the Dubs, and the front office did not want him back. Regardless, other than ensuring a safer and tax-safe bag, Thompson would be a great addition to the team. But why would that be?

Why would Klay Thompson be a major addition to the Mavs?

Joining arguably the best scoring duo in the league, Thompson will be a major factor during the next season. Doncic and Irving are the best shooters on the roster. In addition, they now have a four-time champ who is much more experienced in the postseason and is a consistent 3-and-D player. Yes, the former Splash brother has struggled to maintain his consistency in the past two seasons. However, things will play out differently for him in Dallas. He’ll get more open shots and will have better opportunities to create his own plays.

Consequently, the big three in Dallas will be complemented by their current assets. PJ Washington brings the energy to the floor, and Dereck Lively is a young dominant center. Along with these two, the Mavs have Hardaway Jr., Gafford, and Kleber. This lineup couldn’t have been more balanced and offensively stacked. Thompson’s addition will only boost the Mavs’ offensive abilities. It will be interesting to see the new superteam next season.

What are your thoughts on Thompson joining the Mavericks? Do you think he would’ve been a better fit in LA? Let us know in the comments.

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 exclusive video by EssentiallySports.