
Dallas Mavericks sharpshooter Klay Thompson arguably made a mistake leaving the Golden State Warriors. Here’s why, so you can make an informed decision.
Thompson, 35, and the Warriors didn’t part ways on good terms. The 35-year-old left the team to earn respect and money, and to chase a ring. The new-look Warriors appear to be doing fine without the Washington State product, but the wishy-washy Mavericks can’t say the same. He made a mistake leaving the Bay Area for Dallas.
The Mavs’ NBA Finals run in 2024 attracted local and national attention, including from the Los Angeles native. The 2023-24 Mavs had Luka Doncic. He was a top player and a star that Thompson would work well with. However, he’s not the same player he used to be, the star with four NBA titles.
The former first-round pick’s outlook appears to be bleak. The Mavs were in a position to succeed once Thompson decided to sign with them. Dallas is a suburban area with a relaxed lifestyle. That is much different than the hustle and bustle of San Francisco.
Nico Harrison was a good GM for the Mavs sans the Doncic trade for Anthony Davis. Davis, now 32, and his injuries, such as the left adductor strain in his Mavs’ debut, raised questions about the trade’s success, along with the team’s playoff hopes.
Doncic, now 26, found a new home in LA when Kyrie Irving tore the ACL in his left knee. The Mavs lost both star point guards, a loss that changed the Mavs’ path to regular season and postseason success. Thompson’s skillset appeared to diminish as a result.
Thompson lost his starting guard job for a reason. Thompson’s having the worst season of his career. The former Warriors star has been averaging 10.8 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, along with 36.7% shooting from the field and a dismal 35% shooting from the three-point line. The former Warriors star’s scoring ability and defense are awful.
The Mavs appeared to be excited to sign him, but not anymore. The Mavs’ plan for the future doesn’t appear to include him. If he stayed with the Warriors, he likely wouldn’t be the same player, but he had great passers to set him up.
He made a difficult decision to leave the Warriors, but now, he’s facing a career setback with the Mavs. It is a mishap that could derail his career’s overall image. He made a mistake leaving the Warriors for the Mavs and can be traded.
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