Klay Thompson Faces Intense Scrutiny After Poor Performance in Mavericks’ Loss to Knicks—Is His Future in Doubt

Few players in NBA history have been as synonymous with elite shooting and championship pedigree as Klay Thompson. As one-half of the legendary “Splash Brothers” duo with Stephen Curry, Thompson has long been revered as one of the greatest shooters to ever step on an NBA court.

But after a dismal performance in the Dallas Mavericks’ loss to the New York Knicks, questions about his decline, fit with his new team, and overall future in the league are intensifying.

Has Klay Thompson’s time as a premier NBA sharpshooter come to an end? Is this simply a rough stretch, or is it a sign of irreversible decline? Let’s break it all down.

A Nightmare Performance Against the Knicks

The Mavericks’ recent 117-101 loss to the Knicks was supposed to be an opportunity for Klay Thompson to showcase his veteran leadership and shooting prowess. Instead, it became another painful chapter in his struggles this season.

The Ugly Stat Line

Against New York, Thompson put up:

• 5 points

• 2-of-12 shooting from the field (16.7%)

• 1-of-7 from three-point range (14.3%)

• 3 turnovers

• A game-worst -21 plus/minus rating

For a player whose shooting efficiency has been his calling card, this was nothing short of a disaster.

Luka Dončić & Kyrie Irving Left Carrying the Load

With Thompson struggling, Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving were forced to shoulder even more offensive responsibility. While they combined for 58 points, the lack of reliable outside shooting from Thompson allowed the Knicks to clog the paint and shut down Dallas’ offensive rhythm.

Instead of being the deadly perimeter weapon the Mavericks envisioned, Klay looked out of sync, hesitant, and ineffective—something that has happened far too often this season.

What’s Wrong With Klay? The Signs of Decline

This wasn’t just one bad game—it’s been a trend throughout the season. The once automatic shooter and defensive specialist now looks like a shell of his former self.

1. Sharp Decline in Shooting Efficiency

Over his career, Klay Thompson has been known for his unparalleled three-point accuracy, with a career 41.5% three-point shooting rate.

This season, however, his numbers have fallen off a cliff:

• Three-Point Percentage: 33.8% (worst since his rookie season)

• Field Goal Percentage: 39.6% (career low)

• Scoring Average: 12.4 PPG (down from 17.9 PPG last year)

For a player whose entire offensive game is built around shooting, this is deeply alarming.

2. Lost Defensive Impact

Klay Thompson was once an elite two-way player, capable of locking down the league’s best scorers while lighting up defenses from deep.

But his lateral quickness has vanished since suffering back-to-back ACL and Achilles injuries. He can no longer:

• Stay in front of quicker guards

• Contest shots effectively

• Switch defensively like he once did

This means that not only is Klay struggling offensively, but he’s also no longer the defensive asset that he was during the Warriors’ championship years.

3. The Mental Toll of His Struggles

Perhaps the most concerning aspect of Thompson’s decline is the mental and emotional toll it has taken on him.

• He’s visibly frustrated on the court, often shaking his head after missed shots.

• His body language suggests a lack of confidence—something fans have rarely seen from him.

• Reports suggest he’s been clashing with coaches over his role in the offense.

For a player once known for his calm, killer instinct, this shift in demeanor is troubling.

Is His Future in Doubt? What Comes Next for Klay Thompson?

With Klay Thompson struggling so heavily, the big question is: what happens next?

1. Does He Still Fit in Dallas?

The Mavericks brought in Klay hoping he’d be the missing piece to complement Luka and Kyrie. But right now, he’s looking more like a liability than an asset.

Dallas’s biggest concerns:

• His defense is no longer elite

• His shooting is inconsistent

• He doesn’t create his own shot, making him dependent on Luka and Kyrie

If Klay can’t regain his shooting touch, it’s hard to see how he remains a key piece of Dallas’ playoff push.

2. Will the Mavericks Bench Him?

With his struggles mounting, the Mavericks may have no choice but to reduce his role.

• Rookie Derrick Lively II has emerged as a more consistent shooter

• Tim Hardaway Jr. is outperforming Thompson as a perimeter threat

• Coach Jason Kidd may opt to bring Klay off the bench to limit his impact on the team’s starting struggles

For a four-time NBA champion, the idea of being benched or seeing limited minutes would be a harsh pill to swallow.

3. Could a Trade Be on the Horizon?

If Klay’s struggles continue, could the Mavericks look to move him?

• Dallas could trade him to a contender looking for veteran experience

• A rebuilding team might take a chance on him if they believe he can regain his form

• Klay could opt to finish his career elsewhere, perhaps even returning to Golden State if the opportunity presents itself

Would the Warriors take him back? It’s unlikely, but never say never.

The Harsh Reality: Is This the End for Klay Thompson?

Klay Thompson isn’t just struggling—he’s at a career crossroads.

If he can’t adjust to a lesser role, rediscover his shooting efficiency, or accept that he’s no longer a superstar, his NBA future could be in jeopardy.

While Dallas still hopes he can turn things around, the clock is ticking. If he doesn’t find his rhythm soon, this could be the beginning of the final chapter of his storied career.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Klay Thompson

Regardless of how this season unfolds, Klay Thompson’s legacy is secure.

• Four-time NBA champion

• One of the greatest shooters ever

• A Warriors legend forever

But right now, his present and future are murky.

Will he prove the doubters wrong and reignite his career? Or is this the start of the final decline for a once-great player?

One thing is certain—all eyes will be on Klay Thompson in the coming weeks. His next move could define not just his season but the final chapter of his NBA career.