Will Klay Thompson start for the Mavericks?
The Dallas Mavericks’ acquisition of Klay Thompson has been the offseason’s highlight. Thompson was expected to start for Dallas, but the situation remained questionable. During his most recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, NBA insider Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium clarified everything. “Klay Thompson had more on the table potentially from the Lakers,” Charania reported. “Even last offseason, I’m told, he turned down two years and $48 million from the Warriors. He believed the Dallas Mavericks offered him the best chance to win a championship of any team, including the Warriors and the Lakers. This is why he selected Dallas. He is going to be their starting three (small).
forward) and he will be the guaranteed starter.” Thompson was anticipated to start before to Charania’s comments. Despite not playing to his usual elite standards, he had a solid season in 2023-24. Thompson may be in his mid-30s, but he still has plenty of time to play elite basketball.
Thompson is clearly optimistic about this Mavericks club. He believes he can assist them take the next step toward winning a title. “I was watching the 2024 NBA Finals solely as a basketball fan. During his introduction press conference, Thompson stated, “I saw that I could really help this club. “They’re right there, maybe a few pieces apart. Not major changes, just minor modifications from being over the top. I
Dirk (Nowitzki) went through it in his first Finals, and so did Luka (Doncic). We are banging on the door. That’s what made me so eager to be here.” The Mavericks’ anticipated 2024-25 starting rotation Thompson will be joined by Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving in the starting lineup. PJ Washington is also scheduled to start. If Washington and Thompson start as the Mavs forwards, Dallas’ rotation will be quite small. Either Dereck Lively II or Daniel Gafford will start in the center.
With Washington anticipated to start, the Mavericks will most likely use a four-out, one-in approach. Washington is an effective long-range shooter who can drive to the hoop. Meanwhile, Thompson is one of the best three-point shooters
all-time. Thompson and Washington will force their opponents to defend tightly on the wings. Their presence may also benefit Lively and Gafford in the paint. Perhaps the Mavericks’ bigs will score more. However, the Mavericks’ defensive performance may be questionable. Derrick Jones Jr.’s departure hurts in that regard. However, the arrival of Naji Marshall should help to balance the team’s defense.
Dallas made the NBA Finals in 2023-24 despite not being a title favorite. They hope to go to the next level this season and win a title. Thompson, who won four titles with the Golden State Warriors, will undoubtedly provide valuable expertise. The Mavs are currently focused on NBA Summer League and preparation for the 2024-25 season. This upcoming campaign promises to be spectacular in Dallas.
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