The Dallas Mavericks made a significant addition to their roster this offseason by signing four-time NBA champion Klay Thompson to a three-year deal. Following the team’s run to the NBA Finals last season, where they fell short against the Boston Celtics, this move has been met with excitement by both fans and players.
Kyrie Irving, one of the Mavericks’ stars, expressed his thoughts on the impact of Thompson joining the team. He highlighted Thompson’s leadership and championship experience as key factors in Dallas’ title aspirations.
“That was a big splash in the summertime,” Irving said during media day. “I was letting you guys, the media, kind of give the excitement and what you guys thought of us all of a sudden becoming the big three now between me, Luka, and Klay.”
Irving emphasized how Thompson’s presence not only enhances the team’s talent but also bolsters the group’s ability to succeed on the highest stage. He pointed to the combined leadership and experience that Thompson, Luka Doncic, and he himself bring to the Mavericks.
“If you ask any of us, we feel like we got better as a team,” Irving continued. “We got better as a group that has leadership and also experience, especially on that championship stage.”
Irving explained that the transition to Dallas for Thompson was made easier by the welcoming environment in the city and within the organization. He credited Dallas’ culture for making Thompson’s decision to join the Mavericks smoother than anticipated.
“It’s easy to “convince” Klay to come here because of what I experienced thus far in the past year and a half of just being welcomed and embraced,” Irving said. “Southern hospitality is real. This team does a great job of protecting you not just on the court, but off the court. They go out of their way to make sure you feel special.”
Thompson, known for his sharp-shooting and defensive abilities, is expected to be a key piece of Dallas’ efforts to make another deep playoff run. Irving believes that his addition will be a catalyst in realizing the Mavericks’ championship goals.
“I feel like our dreams can be possible because he’s here now, and he’s added some great value to our championship aspirations,” Irving said.
Last season, Thompson averaged 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. His experience and ability to perform in critical moments will likely prove invaluable as the Mavericks look to build on their recent success.
The combination of Irving, Doncic, and Thompson forms a formidable trio that can pose a challenge for any opponent in the Western Conference. With Thompson’s addition, Dallas is aiming to go all the way and secure an NBA championship in the upcoming season.
