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Mavericks Announce Klay Thompson News After Lakers Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Nov 29, 2025 3:05 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks came into their latest stretch of games under heavy scrutiny, still trying to find stability after what many consider one of the most drastic midseason overhauls in recent history. Less than a year ago the franchise traded away franchise cornerstone Luka Doncic in a blockbuster deal that sent him to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis.

Expectations were that Davis’ arrival alongside veterans such as Klay Thompson and Kyrie Irving would anchor a competitive roster. But instead, the Mavericks have struggled mightily, entering Saturday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers with a 5‑15 record. They are tied for the second-worst record in the Western Conference and are losers of their last three games, including Friday’s defeat to the Lakers.

Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson (31).Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

In a further blow to their already fragile rotation, the Mavericks announced that Klay Thompson will be unavailable for the game Saturday against the Clippers as he continues to manage a left knee injury.

That absence leaves Dallas even thinner at wing and perimeter‑shooting spots, just as the team tries to halt its skid.

Thompson arrived in Dallas in July 2024 via a six‑team sign‑and‑trade, signing a three‑year, $50 million contract. A longtime championship winner with the Golden State Warriors, he earned four NBA titles and built his reputation as one of the greatest shooters in league history. Thompson was expected to bring veteran leadership, elite perimeter shooting and playoff‑tested experience to the Mavericks.

Dallas Mavericks Injury Report vs. LA Clippers:

Cooper Flagg: Available (Right Thumb Splint)
Anthony Davis: Out (Left Calf Injury Management)
Klay Thompson: Out (Left Knee Injury Management)
Dereck Lively II: Out (Right Foot Injury Management)
Danté Exum: Out (Right Knee Injury…
— Grant Afseth (@GrantAfseth) November 29, 2025

However, in his second season, his role on the team has already been altered. After beginning the campaign in the starting five, head coach Jason Kidd moved him to the bench in early November.

The veteran wing’s production has dipped significantly this season. In 19 games, he is averaging 10.3 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 21.5 minutes.

The news also comes as Dallas continues to deal with other major absences, including guard Kyrie Irving, who continues to recover from a torn ACL. Anthony Davis returned against the Lakers after 14 missed games but will not play in the second half of the back-to-back to manage a calf injury. However, rookie Cooper Flagg was upgraded to available after dealing with a right thumb splint.

With Thompson out, Davis sidelined and limited depth available, the Mavericks face an uphill challenge against a Clippers squad also struggling — but at least healthier.

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

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