Dallas released its updated report ahead of the matchup at TD Garden, listing Klay Thompson as probable with a right adductor contusion. However, good news also arrived for the Mavericks, as Cooper Flagg did not appear on the injury report after recently returning from a left midfoot sprain that sidelined him for nearly a month.

Thompson also delivered a strong performance in Thursday’s narrow loss, leading the Mavericks with 24 points. The 36-year-old added four rebounds, one assist, and one steal while knocking down 7 of 12 attempts from beyond the arc in 26 minutes.

Now in his second season with the Mavericks, Thompson is averaging 11.7 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists across 55 games, including eight starts. The veteran guard is shooting 39.1 percent from the field and 38.4 percent from three-point range while playing 22 minutes per game.

The presence of Cooper Flagg is key

Flagg also returned to the courts on Thursday after being absent with injury in the Mavericks 115 114 loss to the Orlando Magic. Cooper Flagg finished with 18 points, six assists, five rebounds, four blocks and one steal while shooting 7 for 22 from the field and 1 for 4 from three-point range across 26 minutes.

Flagg has emerged as one of the Mavericks’ key contributors during his rookie campaign. Across 50 games this NBA season, the forward is averaging 20.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.2 steals per contest while shooting 47.8 percent from the field and 30.1 percent from three-point range in 33.9 minutes per game, pointing to be the rookie of the season competing against Kdnueppel.

The most anticipated return at TD Garden

Tatum, who was originally listed as questionable for Friday night’s game against the Mavericks, has officially been cleared and is available to play, the Celtics announced. One thing to watch is how much Tatum will actually play in his return, as he faces a strict minutes restriction.

Klay Thompson recently weighed in on one of basketball’s most debated topics: the greatest shooters in NBA history. Appearing on Almost Athletes with Dude Perfect, Thompson was asked to name his top five shooters of all time, and he notably left himself off the list.

“Obviously, you’ve got to say Steph. 4,200 makes at like a 42% clip is ridiculous, especially with all the volume,” Thompson said. “And then for me, Ray Allen, because he was the all-time leader for so long until Steph took over. Just Ray’s ability to shoot off the move with the ball in his hands, and that shot he had in the 2014 NBA Finals, that was one of the greatest shots in league history for me. He was a huge inspiration growing up.”

Thompson then turned his attention to another legendary marksman. Reggie Miller, in his view, was impossible to leave out of the conversation. Miller’s ability to weaponize the three-point line in an era that did not emphasize perimeter shooting left a lasting impression on Thompson.

“And then four, five, it gets so hard,” Thompson added. “It’s hard not to say Larry Bird, because although he didn’t shoot the volume of threes, he was so efficient. And Dirk, even his 2011 run, look at his shooting numbers. They’re insane. I’m going to go with those five.”

Logical selections from Klay Thompson

At the top of the list sits Stephen Curry, Thompson’s former Golden State Warriors teammate. Curry stands alone as the gold standard of shooting, owning the NBA record for made three-pointers with 4,233 while shooting 42.2% from beyond the arc. No player in league history has combined that level of efficiency with such volume and difficulty.

Ray Allen held the all-time three-point record for nearly a decade before Curry surpassed him. Allen finished his career with 2,973 made three-pointers on exactly 40.0% shooting, thriving both as a spot-up shooter and while flying off screens in high-pressure moments.

Reggie Miller retired as the greatest shooter of his generation. He knocked down 2,560 three-pointers at nearly 39.5% accuracy during a time when the three-pointer was far less emphasized, using constant movement and stamina to redefine perimeter scoring.

The final two, but no less important

Larry Bird did not rely on volume, but his efficiency and confidence were unmatched. Bird finished his career shooting 37.6% from three and famously won three consecutive Three-Point NBA Contests, often backing up his talk with historic performances.

Dirk Nowitzki changed how shooting big men were viewed across the league. He made 1,982 three-pointers while shooting roughly 38.0% from deep, with his 2011 playoff run standing out as one of the most efficient shooting stretches ever by a superstar forward.

Still, one absence stood out. Thompson himself owns 2,832 career three-pointers while shooting over 40.2% from beyond the arc and sits just behind Allen on the all-time list. Notably, Thompson had previously shared a similar list months earlier that included Kevin Durant and himself instead of Bird and Nowitzki, highlighting how even the game’s elite shooters remain humble when ranking greatness.

Flagg, who turned 19 on Sunday, has enjoyed an impressive start to his rookie campaign and has appeared in all but one game this season. He was added to the NBA injury report with a back contusion and is currently listed as questionable for Monday night’s road game against New Orleans.

There were no visible health concerns for Flagg on Saturday against the Philadelphia 76ers, when he logged 24 points in 37 minutes. That performance suggests the contusion may not be serious enough to sideline him and could be related to the heavy workload he has carried in recent games.

On the other hand, according to NBA Underdog, Klay Thompson is upgraded to probable for Monday’s matchup due to knee soreness. If he can play, he is expected to take on a similar workload to the one he handled in the loss to the 76ers. Should Thompson be unavailable, Jaden Hardy could see additional minutes in the rotation.

The stars carrying the franchises

Dallas continues to rely heavily on Cooper Flagg, who is averaging 18.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists over 28 games this season. P.J. Washington contributes 16.0 points and 7.9 rebounds per game, while Anthony Davis, who has appeared in only 13 contests, leads the team with 19.9 points and 11.2 rebounds per outing.

The Pelicans are led offensively by Trey Murphy III, who is averaging 21.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists across 27 games. Zion Williamson has played 13 games and is posting 21.3 points and 5.5 rebounds per appearance, while Jeremiah Fears adds 15.1 points and 3.1 assists in 29 games.

Both teams are coming off tight overtime wins, with Dallas defeating the Detroit Pistons 116–114 on Thursday and New Orleans edging the Houston Rockets 133–128 on the same night, underscoring how thin the margin has been for each side.

A season matching expectations for Flagg

Flagg is coming off one of the most productive rookie seasons ever for an 18-year-old. He finished behind only LeBron James and Kobe Bryant in scoring among teenagers, became the youngest player to score 40 or more points in a game, and also the youngest to record double-digit assists. It has been an exceptional beginning to his NBA career, and his availability remains central to Dallas’ hopes moving forward.

According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, the Mavericks are preparing to explore an Anthony Davis trade once the star big man returns to full health. The intention is clear: Dallas want to build around Cooper Flagg, and Davis is becoming the asset they may need to cash in sooner rather than later. Rumors involving Klay Thompson have also been circulating for weeks.

It’s a complicated situation because Davis still isn’t playing. He has been out with a calf strain and has appeared in only five games all NBA season. Even before the injury, concerns were mounting. Dallas were reportedly dissatisfied with his conditioning, and MacMahon noted that Davis arrived at training camp roughly fifteen pounds heavier than last year.

Thompson finds himself in an uncertain position as well. He chose Dallas expecting a playoff push, but now he is watching the franchise shift toward a youth-driven rebuild. According to Dallas Hoops Journal, Thompson is already preparing for the possibility of being traded. His shooting profile, high basketball IQ, and postseason pedigree make him one of the most movable veteran pieces in the league.

Teams that could show interest

Despite the injury concerns and poor start, Davis’ talent remains undeniable, which is why the usual contenders are monitoring the situation. Miami have the contracts and playoff-ready pieces to construct a competitive package, though the question is whether it makes sense to move off a healthy and in-his-prime Bam Adebayo.

New York are lurking, as always, and the Knicks are never shy about a headline move. Chicago is a natural fit given Davis’ hometown roots, and the Bulls continue to flirt with a major roster overhaul.

Detroit also belongs in the conversation. The Pistons are suddenly rising behind Cade Cunningham and recently put together an impressive 11-game winning streak. If they decide it’s time to accelerate their growth, Davis is the type of high-risk, high-reward acquisition that can fast-track a rebuild.

The Warriors are the most complex team in the mix. They have shown interest, but to capture the Mavericks’ attention, Golden State may need to include both Jonathan Kuminga and Draymond Green. That kind of package would gut the core identity of their roster, even if it raises their ceiling in the short term. Considering Davis’ injury history and the Warriors’ already advanced age profile, the combination may ultimately be more problematic than promising.

According to the Dallas Hoops Journal, Thompson reportedly understands there is a significant chance he could be traded during the transfer window. His performance and approach to this season with the Mavericks might be the main factors fueling such speculation.

His attitude and on-court performances are key factors the fan base is considering regarding his potential movement at the trade deadline. Meanwhile, other developments within the Mavericks organization might also influence Thompson’s possible departure.

Ownership eyeing roster refresh

Though Thompson boasts considerable talent and the energy necessary to make significant contributions to the team, Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont has announced intentions to make pivotal roster changes to construct a more competitive squad.

Given Thompson’s start to the regular season in a Mavericks uniform, he might be among the candidates to leave the team by the trade deadline, as Dumont and the front office assess which players to retain for future success.

Harrison’s exit and Doncic trade

It’s no secret that changes to a project promised by superiors after a contract is signed can lower a player’s commitment, potentially leading to demotivation. What transpired with Nico Harrison and Luka Doncic are factors Thompson might be contemplating, especially as he hoped to sustain the impact he had with the Golden State Warriors, only to find circumstances drastically altered.

These reasons and possibly others could be pivotal in Thompson’s decision-making, as he remains a player with ample potential in the NBA. Amidst his current struggles and the Mavericks’ evolving situation, he could find himself donning a different jersey before season’s end.

Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd recently made a controversial decision by moving Thompson to a bench role. Considering Thompson’s stature as a four-time NBA champion, the adjustment naturally drew attention. Still, the veteran guard has responded to the change with a surprisingly positive attitude.

Thompson has remained optimistic about embracing his new responsibilities. Speaking to the media after a 123-114 loss to the Phoenix Suns, he offered insight into how he has been adapting and what he hopes to accomplish individually this season. “I’m enjoying it. I get to see the game develop, so I can see where to pick my spots,” he said. “At the end of the day, I played 30 minutes in the NBA, year 15, just trying to be out there as much as I possibly can.”

He continued by reflecting on the privilege of remaining an active contributor at this stage of his career. “I’m not saying the end is near, but it’s such a privilege to be out there, no matter if it’s mid-November or early June. My goal this year is to be the most consistent presence in the lineup.”

The decline in Thompson’s production

Since leaving Golden State, Thompson hasn’t resembled the player he once was. Although he flashed moments of his former brilliance with Dallas last season, his level has dipped notably this year. Across 11 games this season, he is averaging 8.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists, while shooting just 32.0% from the field and 28.9% from three.

When measured against his NBA career averages—19.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game with shooting splits of 45.0% from the field and 41.0% from deep—it becomes clear that Thompson’s best years are behind him. At present, he simply isn’t impacting the Mavericks the way they need, even though he did finish as their leading scorer with 19 points in the loss to Phoenix.

Given his current form, a bench role may indeed be the right fit for him. However, with Dallas struggling to generate reliable perimeter production, the front office may also need to consider the possibility of moving Thompson in hopes of adding younger talent or more consistent outside shooting.

Klay Thompson was officially ruled out for the Mavericks’ game against the Wizards due to illness, according to Joey Mistretta. This marks the first game the veteran guard has missed this season.

In addition to Thompson’s absence, the Mavericks are short-handed in the frontcourt. Dereck Lively II remains sidelined with a knee injury, while Anthony Davis and Daniel Gafford are both listed as questionable for the game against Washington.

Thompson has appeared in nine games this season, averaging just about 20 minutes per contest — a career low. He’s posting 7.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game while shooting 31.6 percent from the field, 26.4 percent from beyond the arc, and 100 percent from the free-throw line.

Thompson’s struggles with the Mavericks

Klay Thompson is going through one of the toughest stretches of his career, possibly his worst, although it’s still early in the season. His numbers have dipped significantly, but history suggests that Thompson tends to find his rhythm as the NBA regular season progresses.

Still, things are far from smooth in Dallas. According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison and the front office are reportedly exploring potential trades involving Thompson to gauge his market value.

Several teams are said to be monitoring the situation closely, as Thompson’s veteran leadership and elite shooting could make a major difference for a contender. To make matters more complicated, head coach Jason Kidd benched Thompson during the loss to the Memphis Grizzlies — a move that raised plenty of eyebrows and added more uncertainty to his role in Dallas.

While the team currently ranks among the league’s top-five defenses, their offense sits dead last in offensive rating. According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, general manager Nico Harrison and the Mavericks’ front office are actively exploring potential trade scenarios involving Thompson to gauge his market value.

Several teams are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, as Thompson’s veteran leadership and elite shooting could significantly boost a contending team’s championship hopes.

Alongside Thompson, the Mavericks are also evaluating options for center Daniel Gafford, the 27-year-old big man who recently signed a three-year, $60 million contract extension.

The move that may have strained Kidd and Thompson’s relationship

Head coach Jason Kidd has made his boldest decision of the season so far: benching Klay Thompson. In a move that reflects both Thompson’s underwhelming performance and the team’s growing sense of urgency, the four-time NBA champion was sent to the bench for the first time since joining Dallas.

Kidd’s drastic call wasn’t made on impulse. The coach revealed he had spoken with the veteran beforehand, explaining that the adjustment was meant to add another ball handler to the starting lineup — a tactical shift aimed at improving offensive flow.

With Kyrie Irving sidelined, the Mavericks have been forced to rely heavily on rookie standout Cooper Flagg to handle primary playmaking duties — a role that doesn’t suit the young forward’s natural game and has hurt his efficiency (38.8% from the field). The insertion of D’Angelo Russell into the lineup is intended to bring more stability to the offense during the NBA games.

Thompson wants the Mavericks to reinvent their playstyle this season. With a new-look roster and both Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis still working their way back, Thompson told The Athletic that Dallas must focus on ball movement, off-ball cutting, and defensive intensity to remain competitive in the West.

“We have different personnel than we did last season,” Thompson said. “We have to play a different style. We have to play to our strengths. That is cutting off the ball, playing through our big men. We understand it can be a different player’s night every night. We don’t know who is going to lead the team in scoring. It’s obviously Kyrie and A.D. But until those guys are in the lineup consistently, it’s going to be someone else’s turn every night.”

Klay Thompson is already a legend, but his quest for greatness is far from over. He came to the Mavericks to win, and he believes that defensive discipline will be the key to unlocking the team’s full potential.

The key to championship contention

Thompson emphasized that there are very specific elements that help a team become a champion in the NBA, including maintaining a roster filled with two-way players. This approach was also a reason why Nico Harrison brought Anthony Davis to Dallas.

“There’s no reason we can’t be the highest-rated defensive team in the NBA,” Thompson said. “In my experience, what helps to win is having a roster full of two-way players. We have that.”

With Luka Doncic, the plan was simple: let him work and stay out of the way. While this approach helped the Mavericks reach the NBA Finals in 2024, the team eventually decided to reset and start fresh after losing faith in the old vision.

Now, with a revamped roster, the franchise is feeling pressure to perform, and that includes the players. Thompson and the Mavericks are aware of the high standards they must meet if they hope to make a deep playoff run and contend for a championship.

“If you put Paul George in that role as Klay Thompson, playing with Steph [Curry], Draymond Green, and [Andre] Iguodala… I think that Golden State probably wins more championships,” Patrick Beverley said, via The Pat Bev Show.

While many share Beverley’s opinion, Klay Thompson’s impact on the Warriors was crucial as he perfectly complemented Stephen Curry, enhancing the team’s overall performance. Although he was not a scoring leader, his impact in the clutch moments was crucial for the franchise. Also, his remarkable basketball IQ, which truly set him apart as he could contribute in many undervalued aspects such as the defensive side.

At his best version, Paul George stood out as a key player, excelling both offensively and defensively. A candidate for Defensive Player of the Year, he also averaged 28 points during the 2018-19 season with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite these achievements, his profile might not align with what the Warriors seek. Klay Thompson’s seamless synergy with Stephen Curry made him indispensable, making difficult to consider another player in his spot.

During their tenure with the Golden State Warriors, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson shared the court for 666 NBA games, solidifying their status as integral components of Steve Kerr’s system. Their chemistry allowed them to play seamlessly, giving the team’s gameplay an effortless fluidity. Reflecting on this partnership in 2024, Curry candidly discussed the complexities surrounding his departure.

“But for me and Klay, there was always that level of trust and nonverbal communication on the court that we always could rely on and that’s built over time. The transition has been attached to not just Klay not being here but us trying to figure out what this specific team needs to be successful. It’s kind of all blended in together…, ‘Oh, this is where Klay would have been.’ Or ‘This is a play that we would have run.’,” Stephen Curry said, via NBC Sports.

Paul George may have been a more individually talented player than Klay Thompson at his peak, but talent alone does not ensure success within a franchise. It’s the synergy and collective balance that lead to titles. This is precisely why the Golden State Warriors thrived. Their formidable trio of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson made a significant impact, propelling the team to four NBA championships.

Former teammate and Warriors veteran Draymond Green recently reflected on that iconic performance — one that helped define their dynasty. On The Draymond Green Show, joined by former NBA guard Baron Davis, Green recalled the desperation of trailing 3-2 in the series and the unwavering confidence Thompson carried into the game. “I remember it like it was yesterday,” Green said. “Comeback in Game 6, backs against the wall, and Klay — the whole day — was like, ‘Dray, I got us. There’s no chance we’re losing this game, bro.’ We’re down 15, and out of nowhere comes Klay Thompson.”

Thompson poured in 41 points, drilling an NBA playoff-record 11 three-pointers in the process, as the Warriors clawed their way back from a double-digit deficit. Golden State’s 15-point comeback led to a 108-101 victory in Oklahoma City, forcing a Game 7 — which they would also win — capping off a dramatic turnaround as the Thunder infamously blew a 3-1 series lead.

Green also used the moment to reflect on the unpredictable nature of postseason basketball. That 2016 run was a tale of two comebacks — Golden State reversed a 3-1 deficit against OKC, only to suffer the same fate weeks later against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals. The drama, the swings, the stakes — it’s what makes the playoffs special.

While it may be difficult to envision a modern playoff scenario as wild as 2016’s, players like Jalen Brunson — who just powered the Knicks to a dominant Game 5 win — are capable of putting together performances that swing a series. For the Indiana Pacers, who are again staring down a surging star, the echoes of heartbreak may feel eerily familiar.

Meanwhile, the Warriors’ offseason narrative has shifted back to roster construction. Draymond Green recently responded to comments made by head coach Steve Kerr regarding his role at center — a spot Green has often filled out of necessity, but not preference. Kerr noted the team would pursue a starting center this offseason so Green could slide back to his natural power forward position.

Green welcomed the idea, though acknowledged the toughness required when he’s forced to guard bigger opponents nightly. “Playing the five, it’s too much,” Green said. “I’m always down to do it, you know that — I’ll take on any challenge. But it’s a hard battle every night. Guys outweigh me by 60 to 80 pounds, and they’re four to six inches taller. I’ve got the energy in the first half, but the second half wears on you.”

He elaborated on the physical and mental toll of anchoring the defense night after night. “It’s not just guarding — it’s putting out fires every possession. I’m built for it, and I’ll do it if our organization needs it. But I agree with Steve — we can start with a true center, and if we need to go to small-ball, I’ll be ready. But it’s a lot.”