Klay Thompson‘s move to the Dallas Mavericks has proven to be a perfect match. The former Golden State Warriors star made a stunning debut in a Mavericks uniform, scoring 22 points on six three-pointers in their season-opening victory over the San Antonio Spurs. The smooth transition to his new team was evident as Thompson seamlessly integrated into the Mavericks’ offensive and defensive schemes.
A Fresh Start
It was weird … right? Klay Thompson in blue, his favorite color, he says, though not the one NBA fans are used to seeing him in. After 13 seasons with the Warriors, Thompson’s departure marked the end of an era. Injuries had taken a toll on his career, and he was no longer the elite player he once was. Seeking a fresh start, he found a welcoming home in Dallas, where he was immediately embraced by his new teammates and coaching staff.
“Mavs blue,” said Thompson, “looks good on me.”
In his Dallas debut, Thompson was brilliant. He made six threes, pulled down seven rebounds and had three steals. He finished plus-16, best among the starters. He contributed to a collective defensive effort that held San Antonio (and Victor Wembanyama) to 45.3% shooting and 33.3% from three. “When we get newcomers, our job is to hopefully get their feet settled,” Mavericks coach Jason Kidd said. “And I think you can see his feet are settled and he’s comfortable here and he’s enjoying it.”
A Perfect Fit To Offensive Force
Thompson admitted that there were nerves before the game. For years, he thrived playing off of Stephen Curry, one of the NBA’s top scorers. But Thompson’s skill set complements the Mavericks’ star duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. The trio has the potential to form a formidable offensive force, capable of dominating games with their scoring prowess. “I mean, it’s easy to play with guy like that,” Doncic said. “[He] makes your life easier.”
In the aftermath of a five-game Finals loss to Boston, Dallas struggled identifying a reliable third option against the Celtics. As a team, perimeter shooting was a disaster. More experience was required. Thompson wasn’t a player the Mavs wanted. He was one they needed.
As Thompson embarks on this new chapter in his career, he will be looking to help the Mavericks contend for an NBA championship. With his experience, talent, and leadership, he is well-positioned to make a significant impact on the team’s success. “Tonight was a great start,” Thompson said. “But I’m not satisfied. We have really big goals.”
