In a significant move that has reshaped the landscape of the NBA, Klay Thompson has signed with the Dallas Mavericks. The former Golden State Warriors star has agreed to a three-year, $50 million contract, bringing an end to his storied 13-year tenure with the Warriors.
Thompson’s departure marks the end of an era for Golden State, where he played an instrumental role in securing four championships. His time with the Warriors was punctuated by phenomenal shooting, steadfast defense, and resilience. However, persistent injuries cast a shadow over his latter years with the team. Thompson tore both his ACL and Achilles tendon in consecutive summers, sidelining him for the 2019-20 season and the one that followed.
Despite these setbacks, Thompson made a significant comeback to play a crucial role in the Warriors' 2022 title victory. Yet, last season brought its challenges. Thompson found himself removed from starting and closing lineups at different points, signaling a shift in his role within the team.
The financial landscape also played a pivotal role in Thompson’s departure. The Warriors extended Jordan Poole with a $123 million contract and finalized a four-year, $100 million deal for Draymond Green last summer. An attempt to get below the luxury-tax line added pressure to the team's payroll decisions. The Warriors offered Thompson a two-year, $48 million extension, which he ultimately turned down.
According to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, “The Warriors and Thompson have differing versions of the firmness of the offer and, again, the true desire of the franchise's lead decision-makers in valuing him as a can't-lose member of the core.” Slater expounded on the complex interplay of factors leading to Thompson’s departure. “It's been a layered five-year path to this divorce, splintering last season, sprouting earlier and finalizing in the last couple weeks, where—among the conversations Thompson had, league sources said—was a request of Stephen Curry not to exert his significant organizational influence and up the temperature with management to ensure Thompson's return. Curry's measured voice, even if it altered the outcome, wouldn't change the genuineness of Joe Lacob and the front office's true desire to have Thompson back.”
Transition to Dallas Mavericks
For the Mavericks, Thompson’s signing represents a strategic bolstering of their roster. Known for his sharpshooting and championship pedigree, Thompson adds a wealth of experience to the team. The Mavericks are undoubtedly excited to integrate a player of his caliber as they strive to make deeper playoff runs.
The move also signifies a fresh start for Thompson. Reflecting on his decision to leave, Slater noted, “The answer to all this is likely somewhere in the middle. The Warriors valued Thompson, just not as much as he desired. They would've loved to have him back on their terms, but not on his. According to Slater, Thompson's decision to leave 'became easy when the Warriors kicked him down the summer pecking order.'
Looking Ahead
For Golden State, the challenge will be maintaining competitiveness while navigating the financial constraints and roster adjustments necessitated by Thompson's departure. Their reported interest in trading for Paul George suggests an ongoing effort to fill the void left by Thompson with another high-impact player.
As Thompson begins his chapter with the Mavericks, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see how he adapts and what contributions he can make to his new team. His legacy in Golden State is secure, etched in the memories of countless thrilling performances and championship moments. The NBA universe now turns its eye toward Dallas, where one of the game’s most beloved shooters begins anew.