Klay Thompson Wants To Prove He’s Still An Elite Defender

Dallas Mavericks Guard Klay Thompson wants to prove he’s still an elite defender. However, Thompson’s wish might not come true in the upcoming season. Thompson, 34, impressed the public in his Mavericks debut with 10 points in the preseason game No. 2 vs. Utah Jazz on Thursday night.

There’s a chance that Thompson could achieve a redemption season sometime this year. However, Thompson’s actions often speak louder than words. He should prioritize working hard while staying healthy. Here’s why.

Klay Thompson Sparks Questions

Klay Thompson isn’t perfect, but he sparked some questions when he signed a three-year, $50 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks this summer and when he suffered an injury after his Mavericks debut on Thursday. Thompson used to be an elite defender and can still try to be one, but he trailed in recent years due to ACL and Achilles tear injuries in his 13-year Golden State Warriors tenure.

Klay Thompson is reportedly ready to redeem himself. However, Thompson’s latest injury — a tight back — could set him back in his professional goals, including a potential redemption season. Thompson’s Thursday performance was a good example, as his defensive effort was solid due to his abilities to cut off passing lanes, get around screens, and defend shots without fouling out.

Thompson Put On a Show

Despite the unfortunate postgame injury, Klay Thompson put on a show in the Dallas Mavericks vs. Utah Jazz preseason game at the American Airlines Center on Thursday. Thompson posted 10 points and three rebounds while shooting 33.3% from the field goal line and 60% from the three-point line.

After the game, Klay Thompson told Sports Illustrated, “It’s great when you have offensive players like Luka [Doncic] and Kai [Kyrie Irving] because you can focus on guarding guys … I still want to get rid of the notion that I’m not the same defender I once was. I truly believe I am, and I’m excited to prove people wrong.”

Thompson’s Injury Update

According to The Smoking Cuban’s Noah Weber, Klay Thompson said that his back “tightened up” on him in Thursday’s game between the Dallas Mavericks and Utah Jazz, but he’ll be “ready to go” on Monday when the Mavericks host the Los Angeles Clippers.

Thursday’s game was just a preseason matchup, but Klay Thompson’s injury can be described as “unsettling” as the Mavericks seemed to think that he could help them win their third NBA championship. Thompson previously won four NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors and played in five NBA All-Star Games during his 13-year tenure in the Bay Area.

At least Klay Thompson found his rhythm offensively after the first quarter of Thursday’s game. Thompson’s defensive efforts can help the Mavericks, but not right now. We’ll keep an eye on his back injury, as plenty of people would like to see him play with Mavericks star Point Guard Luka Doncic.