Klay Thompson, a free agent guard, has agreed to a three-year, $50 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks, marking the end of his impressive 13-year stint with the four-time champion Golden State Warriors. Thompson was enticed to join the Mavericks by the opportunity to pursue a fifth championship alongside the Western Conference champions.
The deal, orchestrated by his agent Greg Lawrence of Wasserman, included a complex sign-and-trade arrangement. As part of this trade, Mavericks guard/forward Josh Green will move to the Charlotte Hornets, while the Warriors will receive two second-round picks.
Sources disclosed that Dallas will send its own 2031 second-round pick and the least favorable second-round pick between the 76ers and Nuggets in 2025. Lawrence and Thompson held discussions with Mavericks GM Nico Harrison and VP Michael Finley at the Bottle Inn in Hermosa Beach, California, to finalize the specifics of Thompson’s transfer to Dallas.
Although the Lakers held appeal for Thompson, sources indicated that the financial advantages of residing in Texas and the Mavericks’ recent near-championship season were pivotal in his decision-making process.
Throughout Thompson’s final season with the Warriors, his relationship with the team became strained due to contract negotiations and his upcoming free agency. His departure appeared increasingly likely as the season progressed.
Thompson’s dissatisfaction grew as his role within the team fluctuated, including being excluded from the closing lineup in early February and subsequently transitioning to a bench role. Last season, Thompson, 34, averaged 17.9 points, marking his lowest scoring average since the 2012-13 season.
His tenure with the Warriors comes to a close with his legacy firmly established in both franchise and NBA history. Alongside Curry and Draymond Green, Klay Thompson contributed to 518 wins in the regular season and playoffs, ranking sixth all-time for a trio.
Together, they secured 98 playoff victories, placing third in NBA history. Their achievement of four championships matches the record held by Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker as the most by an All-NBA trio in the past fifty years, according to ESPN Stats & Information research.
On Monday, the Warriors conveyed their best wishes to Thompson in a statement, expressing their anticipation of retiring his No. 11 jersey. “The joy and happiness Klay brought to Warriors fans, Bay Area residents, and Dub Nation supporters worldwide have been profound and cannot be overstated,” the statement emphasized. “His ability to perform under pressure on the biggest stages, including numerous Game 6 heroics, has been central to his career.
“Klay’s legacy will endure indefinitely, and we eagerly anticipate the day his #11 jersey is raised to the rafters at Chase Center, alongside other iconic Warriors who played pivotal roles in our recent dynasty – including Klay himself. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Klay for his contributions and wish him continued success as he embarks on the next chapter of his journey.”
As $50 million contract with the Mavericks, Klay Thompson embarks on a new chapter in his illustrious career. His move to Dallas not only signifies a significant shift in the NBA landscape but also marks the end of a storied tenure with the Golden State Warriors. As Thompson prepares to bring his sharpshooting skills and championship pedigree to the Mavericks, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing how he will contribute to his new team’s aspirations and legacy in the seasons to come.
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