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Five time All-Star Klay Thompson shares bold take on Mavericks recent struggles

After the Dallas Mavericks edged out the San Antonio Spurs by four points, Klay Thompson addressed the team's recent struggles in the regular season.

Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts after scoring during the third quarter against the Golden State Warriors at American Airlines Center on February 12, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.
Ā© Sam Hodde/Getty ImagesKlay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts after scoring during the third quarter against the Golden State Warriors at American Airlines Center on February 12, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

If there’s one team that has struggled since the trade deadline, it’s the Dallas Mavericks. Without their star Luka Doncic, the team attempted to build a new game plan around Anthony Davis, who arrived from the Los Angeles Lakers. However, Davis suffered an injury, as did Kyrie Irving, leaving five-time All-Star Klay Thompson as the team’s primary leader.

In his first season with the Mavericks, Thompson has become a key figure in Jason Kidd’s system, which initially revolved around Doncic and Irving. With those plans disrupted, the Mavericks are now looking for ways to regain momentum and secure a playoff spot by April.

Currently sitting at 33-33, Dallas recently earned a crucial victory over the San Antonio Spurs, offering some relief amid a turbulent stretch. After the win, Thompson addressed the team’s struggles and his mindset moving forward.

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ā€œThat’s probably the toughest part… not feeling sorry for yourself and realizing we’ve got a job to do. This is the best job,ā€ Thompson said, reflecting on the team’s recent struggles and his determination to help guide them into the postseason.

Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks brings the ball up court against Jake LaRavia #33 of the Sacramento Kings

Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks brings the ball up court against Jake LaRavia #33 of the Sacramento Kings

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Thompson’s Commitment to the Mavericks’ Future

Thompson has reaffirmed his commitment to the Mavericks despite a whirlwind of surprising trades during the recent trade window. The veteran sharpshooter remains focused on helping the team reclaim its former glory. ā€œI still believe in this franchise. I’m here for two more seasons after this, so I’d love to help them return to the glory they reached in 2011,ā€ Thompson said.

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With those words of support, Thompson expressed his determination to deliver his best basketball to help the Mavericks return to playoff contention. Now, alongside a talented supporting cast, Thompson is determined to make the most of his remaining years in Dallas.

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Kidd Praises Thompson’s Leadership

Despite the team’s struggles in recent months, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd praised Thompson’s leadership following their victory over the Spurs. ā€œHe understands what it takes to be a pro. He just keeps sticking to his routine, and now we just have to get back to work and focus on winning the upcoming games,ā€ Kidd said.

With key players like Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving sidelined, Thompson is expected to take on a pivotal role in leading the Mavericks through their upcoming stretch of games. As the team fights to secure a playoff spot in April, Thompson’s presence will be crucial in keeping their postseason hopes alive.

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