Klay Thompson’s move signifies the end of an era for the Golden State Warriors as he takes his talents to the Dallas Mavericks. The five-time NBA All-Star and four-time champion has made headlines by signing a three-year, $50 million deal. This transition not only alters the landscape for both teams but also marks a significant shift in Thompson’s illustrious career.
Having spent his entire career with the Golden State Warriors, Thompson's departure brings an emotional close to his tenure with a franchise where he achieved numerous accolades. The move did encounter initial complications, particularly concerning what the Warriors would secure in the transaction. These obstacles were eventually overcome, allowing the deal to proceed as a sign-and-trade agreement.
Deal Details
As part of the sign-and-trade, Josh Green will be sent to the Charlotte Hornets, while the Warriors will receive two second-round picks. Though briefly mired in uncertainty, the resolution of these trade components smoothed the path for Thompson to don a Mavericks jersey next season.
This decision not to retain Thompson unequivocally indicates a strategic pivot for Golden State. Last offseason, the Warriors presented Thompson with a two-year, $48 million contract, which he declined. Comparatively, other key Warriors’ signings include Draymond Green’s four-year, $100 million deal and Jordan Poole's four-year, $128 million contract. Instead, Golden State has increasingly emphasized younger talent, such as rookie shooting guard Brandin Podziemski, suggesting a forward-looking approach.
A Storied Career
Thompson leaves behind a legacy ingrained deeply into the fabric of the Warriors. Alongside Draymond Green and Stephen Curry, Thompson holds the third-most playoff wins as a trio in NBA history, boasting 98 victories. They trail only the iconic duos of Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Michael Cooper with 110 wins, and the legendary Spurs trio of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili, who lead with 126 playoff wins.
In terms of individual achievements, Thompson is sixth on the NBA's all-time list for three-pointers made, having drained 2,481 shots from beyond the arc. The only current era player ahead of him is none other than his long-time Warriors teammate, Stephen Curry, who tops the list with a staggering 3,747 three-pointers.
Impact on the Mavericks
For the Dallas Mavericks, acquiring a player of Thompson’s caliber addresses a glaring need. During the NBA Finals, the Mavericks managed only 106.7 points per 100 possessions, underlining their struggles on the offensive end. Thompson’s inclusion not only bolsters their scoring options but also adds veteran leadership to a team aspiring for championship contention.
Prior to this deal, Thompson had been linked to other franchises, including the Lakers and the Clippers. The Lakers, who found themselves navigating the Play-In tournament last season, and the Clippers, grappling with the loss of Paul George, ultimately couldn't secure the sharpshooter’s services. Thompson's choice to join Dallas signifies a commitment to fortifying the Mavericks' roster in their quest for greater success.
The ripple effects of this move will be closely observed as both franchises adjust to their new realities. While the Mavericks gain a proven scorer and experienced champion, the Warriors are set on nurturing emerging talents, marking an end to one of the most celebrated chapters in modern NBA history.