Klay Thompson is gearing up for his first season with the Dallas Mavericks, and if early glimpses are any indication, he’s wasting no time settling into his new role. The five-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion, known for his lethal shooting and lockdown defense, is already showcasing the form that made him one of the most feared players in the league. After 13 unforgettable years with the Golden State Warriors, Thompson’s move to Dallas marks a new chapter in his career—one that could elevate the Mavericks from contenders to legitimate title threats. But what exactly can fans expect from Klay in his debut season with the Mavs?
First and foremost, Thompson’s shooting will remain his most valuable asset. Even after suffering two major injuries—a torn ACL in 2019 and a torn Achilles in 2020—Klay has proven he can still light it up from beyond the arc. Last season, he knocked down 268 three-pointers at a 38.7% clip, reminding everyone that his stroke is as pure as ever. In Dallas, he won’t need to carry the same offensive load he did in Golden State, where defenses often keyed in on him and Steph Curry. Instead, he’ll benefit from playing alongside Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, two elite playmakers who will generate open looks for him at an even higher rate. Defenses won’t be able to double-team Thompson as aggressively, meaning he could see more clean catch-and-shoot opportunities than he has in years. If he stays healthy, there’s no reason he can’t average 18-22 points per game while flirting with 40% shooting from deep.
Beyond his scoring, Thompson’s experience and championship pedigree will be invaluable for a Mavericks team that reached the NBA Finals last season but fell short against the Boston Celtics. Klay has been through every possible playoff scenario—Game 6 explosions, elimination-game heroics, and the pressure of closing out series. His calm demeanor under fire will be crucial in high-stakes moments, especially for a relatively young Dallas core outside of Irving. Thompson’s presence alone raises the team’s floor, not just because of his skill but because of his understanding of winning basketball. He moves well without the ball, spaces the floor intelligently, and rarely forces bad shots—qualities that will mesh perfectly with Dončić’s methodical, playmaking-heavy style.
Defensively, Thompson may not be the same lockdown defender he was in his prime, but he’s still more than capable of holding his own. At 6’6” with a strong frame and quick hands, he can guard multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes. While he may not chase around the league’s quickest guards like he used to, he’ll be a significant upgrade over what the Mavericks had on the wing last season. His ability to switch onto bigger forwards and hold his ground in the post will be particularly useful in the playoffs, where versatility is key. More than anything, his defensive IQ and communication will help organize Dallas’s defense, which was middle-of-the-pack last season. If he can stay healthy, expect Thompson to be a steady, if not spectacular, defender who makes timely plays when it matters most.
Another underrated aspect of Thompson’s game is his durability—when healthy. Before his injuries, he was one of the league’s ironmen, rarely missing games and playing through minor ailments. The Mavericks won’t need him to log 35 minutes a night, but if he can stay on the court for 65-70 games, his impact will be immense. Dallas’s medical staff will likely manage his workload carefully, especially early in the season, to ensure he’s fresh for the playoffs. If they can strike the right balance, Thompson could be a difference-maker in May and June, much like he was for the Warriors during their championship runs.
Chemistry will also be a fascinating subplot to watch. Thompson has spent his entire career in one system, playing alongside the same core of stars. Adjusting to a new coach, new teammates, and a new offensive scheme will take time, but early reports suggest he’s already building a strong rapport with Dončić and Irving. The trio’s combined basketball IQ should make the transition smoother than expected. Thompson doesn’t need the ball to be effective, which makes him an ideal fit next to two ball-dominant creators. If the Mavericks can maximize his off-ball movement and quick-trigger shooting, they’ll have one of the most potent offensive trios in the league.
One area where Thompson could surprise is his playmaking. While he’s never been known as a facilitator, playing alongside Dončić and Irving might open up opportunities for him to make more passes out of closeouts. Defenses will be so preoccupied with stopping Dallas’s primary creators that Thompson could exploit scrambling defenders with smart reads and easy assists. He won’t suddenly turn into a point guard, but a slight uptick in his assist numbers wouldn’t be shocking.
Of course, there are questions. Can Thompson maintain his efficiency with a slightly different role? Will his body hold up over an 82-game season? How will he handle the emotional adjustment of playing for a new team after more than a decade in Golden State? These are fair concerns, but if his offseason workouts and early preseason form are any indication, he’s more than ready for the challenge.
Ultimately, Klay Thompson’s first season in Dallas should be a resounding success. He may not average 25 points per game, but his shooting, defense, and championship experience will make the Mavericks a far more complete team. If he stays healthy, there’s every reason to believe he’ll be a key piece in their quest for a title. The NBA is a league where fit and role matter just as much as talent, and Thompson’s skill set aligns perfectly with what Dallas needs. Whether it’s knocking down clutch threes, locking down opposing wings, or simply providing veteran leadership, Klay Thompson is poised to make his mark on the Mavericks—and perhaps add another ring to his collection.
