Mavericks Understand Why Warriors Let Klay Thompson Go
The Golden State Warriors recognized that Klay Thompson was declining in his final year with the team. This led to him being benched for 14 games in the second half of that season and the team not guaranteeing him a starting role. Consequently, Thompson left for the Dallas Mavericks as a free agent.
Thompson's Role with the Mavericks
After signing a three-year, $50 million contract in the 2024 offseason, Thompson was surprisingly benched for the first time in his 80 games with Dallas. His minutes had been gradually decreasing at the start of the season, reflecting both his diminished play and the Mavericks’ struggles, who held a 2-5 record and sat 14th in the Western Conference before a game against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Past Frustrations and Performances
Thompson was initially frustrated by Steve Kerr's decision to bench him on February 15 last year, but he responded strongly with a notable 35-point, six-rebound game against the Utah Jazz, shooting 7-of-13 from three-point range.
Current Season Form
His performance against the Pelicans wasn’t as spectacular, but it was still one of his better games of the season. Heading into it, Thompson was averaging a career-low 8.1 points per game with a 31.8% field goal rate and 26.2% shooting from three.
"Thompson’s minutes were on the decline to start the season, making this not a total shock given his underwhelming form and that of the Mavericks who entered Wednesday night's matchup with the New Orleans Pelicans at a 2-5 record and 14th in the Western Conference."
Summary: Klay Thompson's decline has become clear, justifying the Warriors' decision to release him and reflecting challenges in his performance with the Mavericks.