Klay Thompson Sends Message After Unexpected Mavericks Decision

Thompson’s response backed that up. Entering the game with just over five minutes left in the first quarter, the 35-year-old scored five quick points and finished with 11 overall, his best outing of the season so far. He added four rebounds and three assists, showing flashes of the rhythm that once made him one of the league’s most reliable shooters.

Before this game, Thompson had started every appearance for Dallas since being traded from the Golden State Warriors. The last time he came off the bench was in the 2023–24 season with the Warriors.

Thompson’s start to the 2025–26 season has been far from ideal. Through eight games, he’s averaged just over eight points on under 35% shooting, including a cold 29% from three-point range, a far cry from his career 41% clip. Still, he isn’t letting the slump shake his belief in himself.

“Those first few games were tough,” he said. “It took me a while to get my legs under me. But now I’m feeling like myself again. You just know as a shooter when that ball is leaving your hand the right way — big things are coming.”

That self-assurance has been the hallmark of Thompson’s career. After surviving two major injuries earlier in the decade and reinventing his game to fit alongside new teammates, he has learned to adjust to change rather than resist it.

Even with the Mavericks struggling, Thompson made it clear that accountability starts with the players themselves.

“It’s not the start we wanted,” he said. “But that’s no excuse. We’ve got to own it. We can all be better, especially me.”

“I’m just happy to still be here,” Thompson reflected. “You play this long, you see teammates come and go. You start to realize how hard it is to last in this league. Fifteen years? That’s not easy. I’m thankful for every game.”

Thompson’s humility and team-first mindset have drawn respect from both coaches and teammates. Kidd praised his professionalism and noted that the shooting guard’s attitude set a positive tone despite the loss.

As the Mavericks continue their tough start, Thompson’s message stands out not just as a response to being benched, but as a reminder of what veteran resilience looks like.