The NBA is always full of eventful changes, and one that’s caught a lot of attention is the addition of Klay Thompson to the Dallas Mavericks. After spending his entire career with the Golden State Warriors, where he helped build one of the most dominant dynasties in NBA history, the idea of Thompson in a Mavs jersey feels a little wild. But could it work?

Dallas is fresh off a Finals appearance in the 2023-24 season, led by Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. The two stars gave opposing teams plenty of trouble, but it still wasn’t enough to bring home the championship against the Celtics. The Mavericks were on the hunt for the right pieces to finally get them over the hump, and that’s where Thompson comes in.

Is Klay going to play at a high level?

On paper, Klay seems like a dream addition. His shooting (when right) is legendary, and he’s one of the best in the league at playing off the ball, as well as in the catch-and-shoot. That means he wouldn’t need to take touches away from Dončić or Irving, who thrive when they’re controlling the offense.

Klay’s ability to space the floor would open up even more opportunities for Luka to drive and create, and Irving could be freed up to do what he does best: score in bunches. Finally, he has already made his debut in the preseason and left a pleasant surprise with his performance.

Klay’s First Mavericks Game: 10 PTS, 3 AST, 18 MIN

Can he stay consistent?

Obviously, there are questions. Thompson’s injury history is hard to ignore. At 34, he’s not the same player he was before his ACL and Achilles injuries. There have been flashes of vintage Klay, but can he consistently perform at a high level over a long season? And then there’s the fit. With two ball-dominant stars already on the roster, would Thompson be okay with taking a backseat offensively even more?

It’s a gamble in certain aspects for sure, but if the Mavericks get a healthy Klay Thompson, his experience, shooting, and defense could be exactly what they need to make another run at the title. It’s a move that could pay off in a big way, providing that all the pieces fall into place.

text source: nba.com