Klay Thompson is expressing his appreciation for the opportunity to team up with Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis.
Despite Luka Doncic being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Dallas Mavericks sharpshooter still extended his admiration to his teammates by comparing them to another Hall of Fame-level competitor and being one of the best in today’s era.
Kyrie Irving
In speaking of the discussion with Michael Cooper’s podcast, “Showtime with Cooper”, they talked about some of Thompson’s career, specifically the toughest matchup he had and pertained to Irving.
“It’s awesome being his teammate now, because we can talk about those things and try and add to our last chapter and lead together and add to our legacy. Because we did come into the league together, you know, same draft class, class of 2011.”
“And I just have great respect for Kyrie. He’s the toughest guy I’ve ever guarded. You know, put him up there with LeBron and KD and Kobe. He’s got no weaknesses in his game.”
Irving’s career average was 23.7 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.1 boards, being now the focal point for the Mavericks.
Anthony Davis
When Thompson joined the Mavericks, they were expected to make the postseason together with Doncic and Irving, after falling short in the 2024 NBA Finals. Dallas acquired their missing piece of a pure shooter, but compromised to obtain a big man over their franchise player.
Meanwhile, they also discussed Davis’s capability as being the best in his position during his era.
“AD, when he’s healthy, he is the best power forward, maybe of my generation,” Thompson said.
He was traded to Dallas in February in a blockbuster deal that sent Luka Doncic to Los Angeles. Davis’ combination of scoring, rebounding, and rim protection has made him one of the NBA’s most versatile frontcourt players.
The 13-year veteran is averaging 24.1 points, 10.7 boards, and 2.3 blocks. He has also earned eight All-Star selections and helped the Lakers capture the 2020 NBA championship.
The Dallas Mavericks ended the regular season with the 10th seed, then fell short to the Memphis Grizzlies in the play-in tournament during the postseason.
