Mavericks Announce Klay Thompson Decision on Sunday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Hudson | Last updated Mar 15, 2026 3:21 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks have struggled to keep pace in the competitive Western Conference this season, currently sitting in the 12th seed. Since losing Luka Doncic in one of the league’s most shocking trades last season, Dallas has not been able to replicate the same level of success. The team has also dealt with injuries and frequent lineup changes throughout the year, making it difficult to build consistency on both ends of the floor.

Ahead of their matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Mavericks will once again be without veteran guard Klay Thompson. With the team already struggling to stay competitive in the standings, Dallas will need other players to step up as they look to remain competitive against one of the Eastern Conference’s stronger teams.

According to Ron Harrod Jr. of DLLS Mavs, Thompson is expected to miss the game due to rest. The Mavericks also decided that Thompson will not be available for Sunday's game against the New Orleans Pelicans.

Caleb Martin (left finger sprain), John Poulakidas (G League/Two-Way), and
P.J. Washington Jr. (left ankle soreness) are all playing.

Moussa Cisse (G League/Two-Way) and
Daniel Gafford (illness) are OUT. Tyler Smith (G League/Two-Way) and
Klay Thompson (rest) are also OUT.
— Ron Harrod Jr. (@RonKnowsSports) March 15, 2026

Thompson’s second season with the Mavericks has been a challenging one, as the veteran guard has not looked like the same player who once thrived with the Golden State Warriors. Across 59 games this season, he is averaging 11.8 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.4 assists while shooting 39.2% from the field and 38.0% from three-point range. His production has dipped compared to previous seasons, reflecting a reduced role within Dallas’ lineup.

The Mavericks have struggled to find stability following last season’s blockbuster Doncic trade and continued roster changes this year. After acquiring Anthony Davis in that deal, the team later moved him again in a trade to the Washington Wizards, highlighting the organization’s shifting direction.

With Dallas now focusing more on developing its younger core, including top overall pick Cooper Flagg, Thompson’s role has continued to shrink. He has started just eight games this season, further showing the decline in both his minutes and overall impact.

Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson (31) warms up before the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at American Airlines Center. © Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Selected 11th overall by the Warriors, Thompson built one of the most decorated careers of his era. A four-time NBA champion, five-time All-Star, two-time All-NBA selection, 2018–19 All-Defensive Team member and 2011–12 All-Rookie selection, Thompson became widely known as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history.

Alongside Stephen Curry , he formed the legendary “Splash Brothers,” helping lead the Warriors to one of the greatest regular-season records ever and several memorable Finals appearances, including their battles with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Thompson began a new chapter in 2024, signing a three-year, $50 million deal with Dallas. However, he has yet to find the same success, leaving questions about his long-term future with the Mavericks.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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