Klay Thompson Reflects on New Chapter with Dallas Mavericks Ahead of Warriors Return

As Klay Thompson prepares for his first game back in the Bay Area since joining the Dallas Mavericks, he reflects on leaving behind an era of success with the Golden State Warriors. In a matchup against his former team, the focus for Thompson remains looking forward, embracing his new role with Dallas rather than dwelling on past achievements. “That chapter is over,” Thompson said after the Mavericks’ close 122-120 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Sunday night. “I got to look forward. I got to try to give my best self here.”

Thompson’s legacy with the Warriors is undeniable. Selected as the 11th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, he became a crucial part of Golden State’s winning trio alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Thompson helped lead the Warriors to four NBA championships and six NBA Finals, cementing his place in franchise history. His achievements include scoring 60 points in just 29 minutes in a game against the Indiana Pacers in 2016 and setting a record with 14 three-pointers in a single game against the Chicago Bulls in 2018. Thompson left Golden State as the franchise’s second all-time leader in three-pointers, behind only Curry.

However, after suffering injuries that sidelined him for two full seasons from 2019 to 2021, Thompson’s future with Golden State became uncertain. Despite his eligibility for an extension, the Warriors ultimately didn’t renew his contract. Following this, he became a free agent and signed a three-year, $50 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks in July 2024. Reflecting on his departure from Golden State, Thompson shared, “That’s just how things go,” showing little disappointment and more readiness for new challenges.

As the Mavericks gear up for the 2024-25 season, Thompson has already started making an impact. Averaging 14.2 points per game, he ranks third in scoring for Dallas, joining a team that made it to the NBA Finals last season led by Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. While the Mavericks currently have a .500 record, Thompson remains optimistic about the season’s potential. “We have some real experience and a chance of winning,” he said. “You have to keep going, keep your emotions, and stay the course.”

Golden State, meanwhile, has started the season strong, boasting an 8-2 record and aiming for a playoff run. While Curry and Green continue to lead the Warriors, fans in the Bay Area are set to honor Thompson on Tuesday with “Salute Captain Klay” night, celebrating his legacy with a one-minute tribute video and a captain’s hat giveaway. Coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the occasion’s significance, stating, “I think we all are [looking forward to it]. It will be very emotional. Our fans can’t wait to see Klay.”

Despite the fanfare, Thompson is treating the game as just another day on the court. He hasn’t kept close contact with Curry and Green since his departure, stating, “I’m locked in. Not really,” when asked if he’s been in touch. Known for his calm and straightforward demeanor, Thompson dismissed the notion of getting emotional about his return, emphasizing, “Basketball is basketball.”

With his eyes firmly set on the future, Klay Thompson continues to focus on building his legacy with the Mavericks, proving his commitment to winning wherever he plays.