Klay Thompson Isn’t the Same Scorer But His Arrival in Dallas Could Quietly Shift the Western Conference

Klay Thompson’s move to the Dallas Mavericks marks one of the most intriguing storylines of the 2025 NBA season. After spending his entire career with the Golden State Warriors, Thompson now joins a Mavericks squad led by Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, fresh off an NBA Finals appearance. While his offensive numbers have declined from his prime years, Thompson’s veteran leadership, championship experience, and still-elite perimeter shooting make him a critical addition to Jason Kidd’s system. This article explores Thompson’s motivations, how he fits into the Mavericks’ roster, his statistical trends, and what his presence means for Dallas’s championship aspirations. With the Mavericks eyeing another deep postseason run, Thompson’s arrival could be the missing piece to push them over the top.

Why Did Klay Thompson Join the Dallas Mavericks?

After 13 seasons with the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson decided it was time for a new chapter. His move to the Dallas Mavericks was not just a career adjustment but a strategic decision. Thompson reportedly believes he can serve as the missing piece for a Mavericks team that reached the NBA Finals in 2024, only to fall short of the title.

The presence of Luka Dončić, one of the league’s most dominant and versatile stars, and Kyrie Irving, who is recovering from an ACL injury, made Dallas an attractive landing spot. Thompson sees himself fitting in as a proven shooter and leader who can help balance the offensive load and provide playoff-tested experience.

For the Mavericks, acquiring Thompson signals an intent to go all-in on their championship window. His ability to stretch defenses with his three-point shooting complements Dončić’s playmaking and Irving’s scoring ability.

How Have Klay Thompson’s Numbers Changed Since His Warriors Dynasty Years?

Statistically, Klay Thompson is not the same explosive scorer he once was. During the 2016–17 season, at the height of the Warriors’ dynasty, he averaged 22.3 points per game on 41% shooting from three-point range. In contrast, during the 2024–25 season, his scoring dropped to around 14 points per game, with his shooting percentages hovering near 37% from three and 43% overall.

While these numbers reflect a decline in volume and efficiency, Thompson still remains one of the NBA’s most respected perimeter threats. His ability to hit shots under pressure, particularly in postseason play, keeps him valuable even as his athleticism has declined following multiple injuries.

The Mavericks are less concerned with Thompson’s statistical dip and more focused on his intangibles: experience, leadership, and defensive awareness. His presence in the locker room provides stability for a young core looking to take the next step toward a championship.

How Does Klay Thompson Fit with Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving?

The Mavericks’ offensive system revolves around Luka Dončić, who averaged 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game last season, nearly recording a triple-double over an entire campaign. Adding Thompson gives Dončić another reliable shooter to kick out to when defenses collapse.

When Kyrie Irving returns to full strength, Dallas will feature a three-headed offensive core. Dončić creates, Irving slashes and scores, while Thompson provides spacing and consistent outside shooting. This trio could mirror the balance Thompson once enjoyed alongside Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant in Golden State, though with different dynamics.

In this system, Thompson is not expected to shoulder heavy scoring responsibility. Instead, his role will be to hit timely shots, guard wings, and provide leadership during playoff runs.

What Role Will Jason Kidd Give Klay Thompson?

Head coach Jason Kidd has hinted at experimenting with rotations this season. While Thompson is a natural starter, there has been speculation that he could take on a sixth man role depending on matchup needs.

Kidd values versatility and may deploy Thompson as both a starter and bench leader throughout the year. His presence allows the Mavericks to maintain floor spacing even when Dončić or Irving rests.

Thompson’s ability to adapt will be crucial. Unlike in Golden State, where he was a guaranteed starter for over a decade, he may need to accept a role that fluctuates. For a veteran chasing another championship, this willingness to sacrifice could be decisive.

How Does Thompson’s Experience Impact the Mavericks’ Locker Room?

Beyond statistics, Thompson’s greatest value may come from his championship experience. A four-time NBA champion with the Warriors, he knows what it takes to survive grueling playoff series and deliver under the brightest lights.

The Mavericks, while talented, are still building their postseason pedigree. Dončić has shown he can rise to the occasion, but Dallas has struggled with consistency. Thompson’s presence provides a steadying influence and a blueprint for what it takes to win.

Younger Mavericks players will benefit from his mentorship, while Dončić and Irving gain a veteran ally who understands both the grind of an NBA season and the pressure of chasing titles.

How Could Bradley Beal’s Move Affect the Western Conference Race?

The Mavericks are not the only team making bold roster adjustments. The Los Angeles Clippers have been linked to a potential acquisition of Bradley Beal, and the Denver Nuggets remain a dominant force with Nikola Jokić in his prime.

If Dallas hopes to keep pace in a competitive Western Conference, Thompson’s impact must be immediate. The combination of his shooting and leadership could give the Mavericks the edge in tight playoff series where every possession matters.

What Does This Mean for the Mavericks’ Championship Window?

The Mavericks’ decision to bring in Klay Thompson reflects their urgency. With Luka Dončić entering his prime and Kyrie Irving battling injuries, Dallas has a limited window to maximize its roster.

Thompson’s addition gives them another weapon in an already potent lineup. While he may no longer be a nightly 20-point scorer, his ability to contribute in key playoff moments could be the difference between another Finals loss and an NBA championship.

The Western Conference remains stacked, but with Dončić leading, Irving returning, and Thompson reinforcing the backcourt, Dallas has positioned itself as a legitimate contender. For Thompson, the Mavericks represent both a fresh challenge and the opportunity to cement his legacy as more than a Warriors legend — but as a veteran who helped guide another franchise to the ultimate prize.