Klay Thompson Embraces Fresh Start with Dallas Mavericks

Klay Thompson is set for a new chapter with the Dallas Mavericks after his long tenure with the Golden State Warriors, the only NBA team he has played for.

"Sometimes change can stir greatness and new change of scenery can do wonders," Thompson said at his introductory press conference. "I'm very grateful for my time at Golden State, but I just felt like moving on could re-energize me and do something special for the rest of my career."

Thompson joins the Mavericks as part of a six-team sign-and-trade deal, signing a three-year, $50-million contract. Sources told Mark Puleo of The Athletic that the Warriors had minimal contact with Thompson at the start of free agency and declined to meet his contract proposals or make counteroffers.

“I look forward to being rejuvenated here," Thompson said. “There's a lot of good basketball left in the tank.”

Following their NBA Finals appearance, Dallas added Thompson along with forward Naji Marshall and wing Quentin Grimes in a trade involving the Detroit Pistons.

Last season, Thompson was benched by the Warriors midway through but returned to the starting lineup for the final 10 games. He averaged 17.9 points on 43.2% shooting, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists throughout the season.

"There were times last year where it was really tough," Thompson said. "Everyone expects you to be that All-NBA player, and sometimes it's hard to consistently do that."

Thompson also remarked, "Sometimes breakups are necessary to do what's right. I'm not the first athlete in the NBA to go do this."

The Warriors were eliminated from playoff contention after a first-round defeat in the play-in tournament. As part of the six-team trade, Golden State acquired guard Buddy Hield and forward Kyle Anderson and signed wing De'Anthony Melton to a one-year deal.