Klay Thompson’s return to the Bay Area was expected to carry extra emotional weight, especially with the Christmas Day matchup between the Mavericks and Warriors, but it was clear that both sides have largely turned the page.
As Marcus Thompson II of The Athletic noted, the reunion lacked much of the sentiment that once might have defined it, nearly a year and a half after the 35-year-old sharpshooter joined Dallas through a sign-and-trade deal.
Thompson made it clear that his mindset is now firmly rooted with his current team. He acknowledged that Golden State is simply another opponent at this stage, emphasizing that his focus is entirely on the Mavericks and the responsibilities that come with wearing their uniform.
In his return to Chase Center, the player scored seven points on 3-of-8 shooting while logging 26 minutes, a modest stat line that reflected a night more about familiarity than nostalgia.
Thompson has played 13 seasons for the Warriors and Mavericks. He has averaged 18.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 894 regular-season games.
He was selected to play in 5 All-Star games, and has won 4 NBA championships.
Mavericks Notes: Flagg, Davis, Thompson https://t.co/i0dKG51R5g pic.twitter.com/3MU3Y4g0V2
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 26, 2025
