Klay Thompson officially joined the Dallas Mavericks in July 2024 via a sign-and-trade agreement, ending his 13-season tenure with the Golden State Warriors. The four-time NBA champion departed after failing to reach a contract extension with the Warriors, a move that reshaped the franchise’s long-term salary structure and roster composition.
The Departure from Golden State
Klay Thompson’s exit from the Warriors became official on July 6, 2024, when the team finalized a three-team sign-and-trade deal involving the Dallas Mavericks and the Charlotte Hornets. According to the official NBA transaction report, Thompson signed a three-year, $50 million contract with the Mavericks.
The Warriors opted not to meet Thompson’s expectations for a new deal, as the organization faced significant pressure to reduce its massive luxury tax bill. By facilitating the sign-and-trade, the Warriors received two second-round draft picks and a trade exception, avoiding the loss of Thompson for no return in free agency.
Impact on the Warriors’ Roster
The loss of the "Splash Brothers" duo—Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson—marked the end of a decade-long era that yielded four NBA championships. Following Thompson’s departure, the Warriors pivoted to a more versatile rotation. General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. stated in July 2024 that the team prioritized depth and financial flexibility to remain competitive in the Western Conference. The front office utilized the assets gained from the trade to acquire players like De’Anthony Melton, Buddy Hield, and Kyle Anderson to fill the void left by Thompson’s perimeter shooting.
Klay Thompson’s Role with the Mavericks
Thompson joined a Dallas roster fresh off an NBA Finals appearance. Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd and general manager Nico Harrison targeted Thompson specifically for his floor-spacing ability alongside stars Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. Throughout the 2023-24 season, Thompson had struggled with consistency in Golden State, averaging 17.9 points per game while shooting 38.7% from three-point range. The Mavericks’ front office maintains that Thompson’s gravity as a shooter will open the floor for Dončić’s playmaking, providing the team with the secondary scoring threat they lacked during the 2024 Finals.
Key Takeaways
- Contract Details: Klay Thompson signed a three-year, $50 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks.
- Trade Structure: The move was a three-team sign-and-trade involving the Warriors, Mavericks, and Hornets.
- Warriors Strategy: Golden State received two second-round picks and a trade exception, allowing them to sign free agents like Buddy Hield and De’Anthony Melton.
- Statistical Context: Thompson finished his Warriors career as one of the most prolific three-point shooters in NBA history, ranking sixth all-time in made three-pointers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Klay Thompson leave the Warriors?
Thompson and the Warriors reached an impasse regarding contract length and salary. The Warriors sought to manage their luxury tax obligations, while Thompson sought a deal that reflected his legacy and remaining value.
What did the Warriors receive in exchange?
The Warriors acquired two second-round picks and a trade exception. The team used this financial flexibility to sign role players who provide defensive versatility and perimeter shooting.
How does Thompson fit with the Mavericks?
Thompson serves as a floor spacer for Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. His presence forces opposing defenses to account for his shooting, which creates space in the paint for Dallas’ primary ball-handlers.