Klay Thompson is ready for a new chapter with the Dallas Mavericks after spending his entire NBA career with the Golden State Warriors.
“Sometimes change can stir greatness and new change of scenery can do wonders,” Thompson stated during his introductory press conference. “I’m very grateful for my time at Golden State, but I just felt like moving on could re-energize me and do something special for the rest of my career.”
Thompson joined the Mavericks through a six-team sign-and-trade deal, securing a three-year, $50 million contract. Sources indicate that the Warriors made little effort to negotiate with Thompson during free agency, rejecting his contract proposals without any counteroffers.
“I look forward to being rejuvenated here,” Thompson said, as reported by The Athletic’s Mark Puleo. “There’s a lot of good basketball left in the tank.”
Following their NBA Finals appearance, the Mavericks acquired Thompson, forward Naji Marshall, and wing Quentin Grimes in a trade with the Detroit Pistons.
Thompson, who was benched midway through the season by the Warriors, returned to the starting lineup for the final 10 games. Over the season, he averaged 17.9 points on 43.2% shooting, along with 3.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists.
“There were times last year where it was really tough,” Thompson acknowledged. “Everyone expects you to be that All-NBA player, and sometimes it’s hard to consistently do that.”
Thompson concluded: “Sometimes breakups are necessary to do what’s right. I’m not the first athlete in the NBA to go do this.”
Golden State was eliminated from playoff contention after losing in the first round of the play-in tournament. In the same six-team trade, the Warriors acquired guard Buddy Hield and forward Kyle Anderson and signed wing De’Anthony Melton to a one-year deal.
