DALLAS — When it comes to the NBA Finals, there are countless factors to consider, from strategy to star player matchups, coaching tactics, and even the intriguing subplot of Kyrie Irving facing off against his former team. On Monday, Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd emphasized that poor shooting was the main reason his team fell to the Boston Celtics.
“And to add Klay (Thompson), Klay can shoot,” Kidd remarked, linking the Mavericks’ June defeat to the newfound potential they see with the acquisition of one of the league’s top talents.
During the championship series, the Mavericks struggled with their shooting, hitting only 46 percent from the field and a disappointing 32 percent from beyond the arc, especially poor at 3-0 early in the series. Following that outcome, Dallas successfully acquired Klay Thompson, a player synonymous with success, from the Golden State Warriors, where he became legendary and won four championships as a key component of their dynasty.
As the Mavericks met with the media in Dallas on Monday, they voiced their belief that Thompson could significantly alter their prospects in future finals.
“I feel like our dreams are attainable because he’s here now,” said Irving.
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Thompson, who is 34 years old, signed a three-year, $50 million contract with the Mavericks as part of a complicated six-team sign-and-trade deal. His previous tenure with the Warriors included 13 seasons, five All-Star selections, and six trips to the finals. Throughout his career, he has maintained a 41 percent shooting success rate from 3-point range and ranks fourth in NBA history for the most 3s made; he even led the league in 3-point shooting during the 2023 season.
However, Thompson’s last season with the Warriors did not reflect his typical performance. He found himself removed from coach Steve Kerr’s starting lineup and was often sidelined during critical moments in games. His 3-point shooting percentage of 38.7 was one of the lowest of his career, and he averaged just 17.9 points per game, the lowest since the 2012-13 season.
These circumstances were part of Thompson’s motivation for seeking a fresh start last summer, leading to his decision to join the Mavericks. On Monday, he expressed that watching Dallas in the finals and recognizing their proximity to winning a championship was “why I was here in the first place,” emphasizing the chance to achieve that again. His new teammates and coach view him as the same Klay, capable of delivering what he did for years alongside Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and at times, Kevin Durant.
“Pfft, unbelievable,” Luka Dončić remarked, looking fit after being named the Western Conference finals MVP last season. “He’s a four-time champion, an amazing player. … I believe the spacing will be perfect for us.”
Irving noted that the Mavericks now feature a Big 3 comprising him, Dončić, and Thompson, stating, “If you ask any of us, we feel like we’ve improved as a team.”
Kidd reflected on the finals loss to Boston, saying, “Considering the things we could have done offensively differently, we should have shot the ball better.” He then transitioned to discussing the acquisition of Thompson, saying, “Every time he releases the ball, it appears to be going in, and if he misses one, it simply raises the question of whether he will make the next shot, something we haven’t had here for a while.”
Kidd drew a comparison between Thompson and Jason Terry, a former teammate of his during the Mavericks’ 2011 championship run, stating, “This is rare air when we discuss Klay.” He suggested that Mavericks big men, such as Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively, should consider gifting Thompson for the vertical spacing he will create for them.
<p“Thompson’s destined to be one of the all-time great shooters, and having him on our team simplifies our offensive game,” Kidd said. “Teams that can make scoring easier, like Boston and ourselves, are the ones that win championships.”
When he made his remarks later in the day, Thompson appeared touched and perhaps humbled by the support.
“It means a lot,” Thompson said. “It bolsters my confidence to keep pushing myself and being myself. … Their belief in me truly resonates, and I share that excitement to get to work.”
The Mavericks also bolstered their roster by reuniting with Spencer Dinwiddie through free agency after previously trading him to Brooklyn for Irving. Additionally, they traded for Quentin Grimes and signed Naji Marshall to enhance their wing depth, but Thompson remains the standout acquisition.
Training camp for the Mavericks kicks off Tuesday in Las Vegas, aiming to expedite Thompson’s integration into the new team. Thompson predicted that the adjustment period would take “a couple of weeks,” though he expressed admiration for what he observed during informal scrimmages with Dončić and Irving in recent days. He noted that Dončić’s performance in the pick and roll was “possibly the best I’ve ever seen.” Both Thompson and Irving share the experience of being part of the 2011 NBA Draft class, having faced off in three finals between the Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers, in addition to representing USA Basketball together.
“(Irving) is a significant reason for my presence here,” Thompson acknowledged.
Both Kidd and Irving pointed out the successful efforts the Mavericks have made to help Irving feel at home since his arrival in Dallas at the 2023 trade deadline.
While the circumstances differ, it’s worth noting that Irving faced significant challenges regarding his public image and career during his time with Brooklyn. Thompson has not faced such issues but nonetheless seeks a fresh perspective following his disappointing final year with the Warriors.
“Southern hospitality is genuine,” Irving shared. “This organization excels at supporting you, both on and off the court. They go above and beyond to ensure you feel valued. … Not every NBA team offers that.”
Required reading
(Photos: Glenn James / NBAE via Getty Images)
Dallas Mavericks Pin Hopes on Klay Thompson After NBA Finals Disappointment
Understanding the Dallas Mavericks’ NBA Finals Journey
The Dallas Mavericks faced a challenging postseason, culminating in a disappointing exit during the NBA Finals. Despite a strong regular season, the Mavericks could not translate their success into championship glory. With star player Luka Dončić showcasing remarkable talent, the team’s overall performance fell short, leading to crucial roster reconsiderations.
The Role of Klay Thompson in the Mavericks’ Future
As the Mavericks look to rebuild and strengthen their roster, the spotlight has turned toward Klay Thompson, the sharpshooting guard of the Golden State Warriors. Thompson’s experience and skills could be pivotal for the Mavericks in their pursuit of an NBA championship.
Klay Thompson’s Impact on the Court
- Scoring Ability: Thompson is renowned for his incredible shooting prowess, especially from beyond the arc. His three-point shooting can stretch defenses and create opportunities for teammates.
- Defensive Skills: Thompson is also a capable defender, often tasked with guarding the opponent’s best perimeter players. His defensive acumen could provide the Mavericks with a much-needed boost.
- Championship Experience: Having won multiple championships with the Warriors, Thompson brings invaluable playoff experience, which can be essential for a team looking to make a deep postseason run.
Recent Mavericks Performance in the NBA Finals
The Mavericks encountered several challenges during the Finals, including injuries and inconsistent performances. Here’s a brief overview of their journey:
| Round | Opponent | Result | Key Performers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Round | Utah Jazz | 4-2 Win | Luka Dončić, Jalen Brunson |
| 2nd Round | Phoenix Suns | 4-3 Win | Reggie Bullock, Spencer Dinwiddie |
| Conference Finals | Golden State Warriors | 2-4 Loss | Luka Dončić |
| NBA Finals | Boston Celtics | 1-4 Loss | Luka Dončić, Dorian Finney-Smith |
What the Mavericks Need Moving Forward
To rebound from their Finals disappointment, the Mavericks need to address several key areas:
- Shooting Consistency: While the Mavericks have talented shooters, the addition of a player like Klay Thompson could significantly improve their shooting consistency throughout the season.
- Defensive Cohesion: Improving their defensive strategies is crucial. Thompson’s presence could elevate the team’s defensive metrics and provide leadership on that end of the floor.
- Depth on the Bench: The Mavericks need to bolster their bench to ensure they have the stamina and capability to compete against elite teams.
Benefits of Acquiring Klay Thompson
Bringing Klay Thompson to Dallas presents numerous benefits:
- Elevated Team Morale: Thompson’s winning mentality can inspire younger players and help cultivate a culture of success.
- Creating Spacing: His ability to shoot off screens helps to create spacing for Luka Dončić to operate, making the Mavericks’ offense more dynamic.
- Veteran Leadership: Thompson’s experience can guide the Mavericks through the trials of the regular season and playoffs.
Case Studies of Previous NBA Championship Teams
Analyzing successful teams can provide insights into the importance of acquiring key players:
- Miami Heat (2010): The addition of LeBron James and Chris Bosh transformed the franchise, showcasing the impact of star power.
- Golden State Warriors (2015): With the combination of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, the Warriors revolutionized the game with their shooting.
- Toronto Raptors (2019): Kawhi Leonard’s arrival highlighted how one superstar can change the fortunes of a franchise.
First-Hand Experience: Luka Dončić on Klay Thompson
After the Finals loss, Luka Dončić expressed admiration for Klay Thompson, citing his shooting ability and defensive skills. Dončić stated:
“Klay is a player you want on your team. His ability to shoot under pressure and play great defense makes him an invaluable asset. If we can bring him to Dallas, I believe we can become contenders.”
Practical Tips for Mavericks’ Fans
Fans looking to support their team during this transition can partake in the following:
- Engagement on Social Media: Follow the Mavericks’ official accounts for updates and engage in discussions about potential trades and acquisitions.
- Attend Games: Your presence can boost player morale and show the front office the community’s support for roster changes.
- Join Fan Clubs: Connect with other fans to discuss strategies, trades, and team prospects.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for the Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks are at a crossroads, and the potential acquisition of Klay Thompson could be the catalyst they need to elevate their game. With his experience and skill set, Thompson may very well be the piece that completes the puzzle for the Mavericks in their quest for an NBA championship.
