Klay Thompson, one of the most iconic players in Golden State Warriors history, is set to join the Dallas Mavericks on a three-year, $50 million contract, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
This move has been executed as a sign-and-trade involving the Warriors, Mavericks, and Charlotte Hornets, and it signifies the end of an illustrious 13-year tenure with the Warriors for Thompson. Reportedly, he turned down more lucrative offers to join a title contender.
Thompson, drafted 11th overall by the Warriors in 2011, has been instrumental in the franchise’s success over the past decade. His tenure with the Warriors saw him win four NBA championships and earn five All-Star selections.
Forming the greatest backcourt shooting duo in NBA history with Stephen Curry, Thompson helped revolutionize the game with his incredible shooting prowess. He shot an impressive 41.3% from three-point range over his Warriors career, placing him sixth on the all-time list for made three-pointers.
Despite missing the entire 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons due to injury, Thompson made a triumphant return in the 2021-22 season, contributing significantly to the Warriors’ championship victory that year. Last season, he played in 77 of the Warriors’ 82 regular-season games, the most since the 2016-17 season, and maintained a respectable 38.7% shooting from three-point range, though this was the second-worst rate of his career.
The transition to the Mavericks comes as Thompson seeks to continue competing for titles. Dallas, which reached the NBA Finals last month before losing to the Boston Celtics, provides Thompson with a viable path to another championship. The sign-and-trade deal also involves Mavericks guard Josh Green moving to the Charlotte Hornets, ensuring that all parties benefit from this high-profile transaction.
In Dallas, Thompson will join forces with Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. The prospect of teaming up with such high-caliber talent was a significant factor in Thompson’s decision. Irving and Thompson have faced off in several NBA Finals during Irving’s tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Reflecting on Thompson’s departure, it’s evident that his contributions to the Warriors have been monumental. His ability to deliver clutch performances, exemplified by his record-breaking 37-point quarter against the Sacramento Kings in 2015 and his 60-point game in three quarters against the Indiana Pacers in 2016, has left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Moreover, his off-court persona, characterized by his adventures with his dog Rocco, sailing, and various other memorable moments, endeared him to fans and made him a beloved figure in the Bay Area.
As Thompson embarks on this new chapter with the Mavericks, the Warriors organization and its fans reflect on his legacy with immense gratitude and respect. His journey from a promising draft pick to a pivotal figure in one of the NBA’s most successful teams will forever be cherished.
In other significant NBA news, Paul George is set to sign a four-year, $212 million max contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, leaving the Los Angeles Clippers.
Additionally, the Boston Celtics and All-NBA forward Jayson Tatum are finalizing a five-year supermax extension worth $314 million, making it the largest deal in NBA history. This extension comes after Tatum played a crucial role in leading the Celtics to their 18th NBA title this summer.
