Klay Thompson Plays a Supporting Role as Anthony Davis Shines After Returning to the Court, Helping the Mavericks Win Against the Nets

he Dallas Mavericks secured a dominant 120-101 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on March 25, 2025, at Barclays Center, marking their second consecutive win for the first time in over a month. This victory was significant for the Mavericks as they continue their push for a spot in the NBA Play-In Tournament. The game also featured the highly anticipated return of Anthony Davis, who had been sidelined for six weeks due to a left adductor strain. Alongside him, Klay Thompson played a crucial supporting role, proving his value as an experienced veteran. This article breaks down the game, analyzes key performances, and discusses what this win means for the Mavericks moving forward.

A Season of Change for the Dallas Mavericks

The 2024-25 NBA season has been a rollercoaster for the Mavericks. Following an NBA Finals appearance the previous year, the team underwent a major shift in February 2025, trading Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis and Max Christie. This blockbuster trade stunned the basketball world, as Dončić was the face of the franchise. However, the acquisition of Davis, a 10-time All-Star, was seen as a move to enhance the team’s interior presence and defensive capabilities.

Injuries, however, have plagued the Mavericks throughout the season. Davis suffered an adductor strain in his Dallas debut on February 8, 2025, against the Houston Rockets, where he posted 26 points, 16 rebounds, and seven assists. His absence severely impacted the team, which went 1-9 in its last 10 games before facing the Nets. To make matters worse, Kyrie Irving suffered a season-ending torn ACL on March 3, 2025, adding to the team’s woes. The Mavericks have also missed other key players, including Dereck Lively II, Daniel Gafford, and Caleb Martin, making their path to the NBA Playoffs even more difficult.

Anthony Davis Makes an Immediate Impact

The return of Anthony Davis was the biggest storyline heading into the game. The Mavericks cautiously eased him back into action, limiting his minutes, but his impact was undeniable. In 27 minutes, Davis contributed 12 points, six rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block while shooting 6-of-9 from the field. His +12 plus-minus rating showcased his influence on both ends of the floor.

Davis’ presence provided a much-needed boost for the Mavericks, especially defensively. He helped anchor the team in the paint and disrupted Brooklyn’s offensive rhythm. His return also allowed his teammates to find better scoring opportunities, as defenses were forced to respect his presence in the post.

Fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to celebrate Davis’ return, with many expressing hope for a late-season push into the Play-In Tournament. One user called him the “Luka/AD trade superstar,” while another highlighted how the Mavericks looked like a completely different team with him back on the floor.

Klay Thompson’s Role in the Victory

While Anthony Davis was the focal point, Klay Thompson played a crucial supporting role in the victory. The four-time NBA champion finished with eight points, three rebounds, and two assists in 24 minutes. While his scoring numbers were modest, Thompson’s presence on the floor helped space the court for Dallas’ offense.

Throughout the season, Thompson has had to adapt to a different role than he was accustomed to with the Golden State Warriors. Initially expected to complement Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, Thompson has taken on a larger leadership role since their departures or injuries. He has stepped up as a secondary scoring option, delivering five or more three-pointers in 15 games this season. His ability to stretch the floor has provided Dallas with much-needed perimeter shooting.

Thompson’s steady presence and adaptability will be crucial for the Mavericks as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season. The win over Brooklyn was an example of how his contributions go beyond just scoring—his leadership and floor-spacing capabilities were instrumental in Dallas’ success.

The Mavericks’ Playoff Hopes: What Comes Next?

The victory over the Brooklyn Nets improved the Mavericks’ record to 35-37, moving them half a game ahead of the Phoenix Suns for the 10th seed in the Western Conference. With only a handful of games remaining, every win is crucial for Dallas as they fight to secure a Play-In spot.

The Mavericks’ biggest challenge moving forward will be staying healthy and building chemistry. While Anthony Davis‘ return is a major boost, the team still awaits the return of Dereck Lively II, who has been sidelined with an ankle injury. Additionally, Davis himself must avoid further injuries, as his health will be essential for the Mavericks’ success.

Head coach Jason Kidd has a difficult task ahead—balancing the immediate need to win games with the long-term goal of preserving Davis’ health. If Davis can stay on the court and Thompson continues his steady contributions, the Mavericks could be a dangerous team in the Play-In Tournament.

Conclusion: A New Beginning for the Mavericks?

The 120-101 victory over the Brooklyn Nets was a statement win for the Dallas Mavericks. With Anthony Davis back in the lineup and Klay Thompson providing veteran leadership, the team showed resilience and determination. Davis’ return reminded fans of his dominance, while Thompson’s adaptability proved invaluable.

As the regular season nears its conclusion, the Mavericks are in a fight to secure a Play-In Tournament spot. With Davis healthy, Thompson stepping up, and potential returns from key injured players, Dallas still has hope of making a late-season surge. The road ahead won’t be easy, but this win provided a much-needed spark for a team looking to reclaim its place among the NBA’s elite.