Mavericks Finally Learn Why Warriors Let Klay Thompson Go
The Golden State Warriors recognized that Klay Thompson’s career was entering its later stage during his final season with the team. This realization led to his move to the bench for 14 games in the second half of that year. Without a clear guarantee of a future starting spot, the Warriors allowed him to leave for the Dallas Mavericks in free agency.
Now, the Mavericks are discovering why Golden State felt comfortable parting ways with their five-time All-Star. After signing a three-year, $50 million contract in the 2024 offseason, Thompson has been benched for the first time in his 80th game with the Mavericks. His playing time had already been decreasing, reflecting both his uneven form and the team’s early struggles with a 2–5 record and 14th place in the Western Conference before facing the New Orleans Pelicans.
“Thompson’s minutes were on the decline to start the season, making this not a total shock given his underwhelming form.”
During his final year with the Warriors, Thompson was frustrated when coach Steve Kerr sent him to the bench on February 15. However, he answered that challenge with an outstanding 35-point and six-rebound effort against the Utah Jazz, hitting seven of thirteen attempts from beyond the arc. His latest response, while less explosive, still stood as one of his better showings of the season, despite entering the night averaging just 8.1 points on 31.8% shooting overall and 26.2% from three-point range.
Author’s Summary
Dallas is seeing the same struggles the Warriors foresaw — Thompson’s decline has turned a major signing into a difficult adjustment on both sides.