Klay Thompson Returns to Form with 38.3% Shooting
Klay Thompson, the sharpshooter, may be on the move as the Dallas Mavericks consider trading him. Thompson was brought in to be the missing piece for the 2024 roster that made it to the NBA Finals.
The Mavericks' roster has transformed completely, and Thompson has become a bench player at 36. He still shoots 38.3% from deep, making him an underrated get for contending teams.
Thompson's experience and veteran smarts would benefit teams like the San Antonio Spurs, who need a postseason boost. The Spurs could use a player like Thompson to show up in the playoffs.
The Golden State Warriors are always a potential destination for Thompson, given his legacy with the team. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green remain core members, but the Warriors' roster has worsened around them.
The Warriors might not be willing to trade away young players like Moses Moody or Brandin Podziemski for a 36-year-old Thompson. Thompson's contract is up next year, so the Warriors might wait for him to hit free agency or negotiate a buyout with the Mavericks.
Thompson averaged 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per contest in his rookie campaign with Cooper Flagg. The Mavericks finished with a 26-56 record this past season, and it will take a lot for them to make the postseason.
The Mavericks traded away Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards, and now Thompson could be the next to go. Thompson's shooting ability makes him a reliable asset for contending teams.
The Western Conference is stacked, and the Mavericks need to trend younger. Trading Thompson would be a step in that direction, but it's unclear what the Warriors could offer in return.
Thompson's legacy with the Warriors makes a reunion appealing, but the Warriors' roster has changed significantly since his departure. The Spurs, on the other hand, could use Thompson's experience to make a playoff push.
Thompson's athletic decline has made him a worse defensive player, but he can still contribute on offense. The Spurs would benefit from his veteran smarts and ability to perform in the postseason.
The Mavericks' decision to trade Thompson will depend on what they can get in return. If they can get a good deal, it might be time for Thompson to move on to a new team.
The NBA offseason is full of surprises, and Thompson's future is uncertain. One thing is clear: Thompson still has something to offer, and contending teams will be interested in his services.
The Golden State Warriors and San Antonio Spurs are just two potential destinations for Thompson. Wherever he ends up, Thompson will bring his signature shooting ability and experience to the table.