Mavericks Finally Learn Why Warriors Let Klay Thompson Go
The Golden State Warriors recognized that Klay Thompson was past his athletic peak during his final year with the franchise. This realization led to his role being reduced, spending 14 games on the bench in the latter half of that season. The team decided not to promise him a starting position and allowed him to leave for the Dallas Mavericks in free agency.
Now, the Mavericks have discovered why the Warriors were comfortable letting the five-time All-Star move on. After signing a three-year, $50 million contract in the 2024 offseason, Thompson has been moved to the bench for the first time in his 80th game with Dallas.
Thompson’s playing time had been declining early in the current season, a reflection of his uneven form and the Mavericks’ 2–5 start, which placed them 14th in the Western Conference entering their game against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Declining Form and Frustration
The veteran shooter had previously dealt with a similar demotion under Steve Kerr on February 15 of the prior season.
He answered that move with a 35-point, six-rebound outburst against the Utah Jazz, shooting 7-of-13 from beyond the arc.
This week’s reaction was milder but still encouraging, marking one of his stronger outings of the year. Entering the game, Thompson averaged just 8.1 points per game while shooting 31.8% from the field and 26.2% from three-point range — both career lows.
Author’s Summary
Klay Thompson’s decline in performance explains why the Warriors moved on and why the Mavericks are now reconsidering his role after a rough season start.