Klay Thompson left Goals. Why did you choose Dallas instead of the Los Angeles Lakers. What about Doncic?

Jul 02, 2024

Klay Thompson left Goals. Why did you choose Dallas instead of the Los Angeles Lakers. What about Doncic?



Klay Thompson left Goals. Why did you choose Dallas instead of the Los Angeles Lakers. What about Doncic?
In the end, Klay Thompson chose the Dallas Mavericks. Dallas, which knelt down to the Boston Celtics in this season's NBA Finals, formed a 'Big 3' and paved the way for next season's championship.

The U.S. sports media ESPN exclusively reported on the 2nd (Korea time) that Clay Thompson will sign with Dallas for three years and $50 million (about 69 billion won).

In the end, Thompson's next destination was Dallas.



Thompson, who joined Golden State in 2011, was at the heart of the 2010s 'Goals dynasty'. He was in strong harmony with Stephen Curry, the league's best offensive point guard and the best shooter of all time.

He also earned the nickname 'Splash Duo' with his excellent defense, 3-pointers, and powerful off-ball movement Curry.



Along with stars such as Draymond Green, Andre Iguodala, and Kevin Durant, he led Golden State to four championships.

However, Thompson, who has been rehabilitating for a long time due to a knee cruciate ligament injury since 2019, suffered from 'aging' after returning from injury. Strong defense has changed to a normal level, and excellent shooting efficiency has also been in trouble last season.



Golden State was cool about Thompson, who had fallen in value. Golden State, which wanted to avoid luxury taxes for four consecutive seasons, offered a two-year, $48 million contract, but Thompson refused.

In the end, he settled in Dallas, where he offered $50 million for three years. Golden State permanently retired No. 11 and honored the departing franchise star.

Thompson and Golden State's separation was scheduled.

The Philadelphia 76ers, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Dallas Mavericks have emerged as potential destinations. However, Philadelphia preferred Paul George more, and the Los Angeles Lakers had to trade Thompson for a rookie draft pick. In the end, Dallas caught Thompson.

In fact, Thompson's value has fallen a lot. However, Dallas needed Thompson. Why is that.

CBS Sports in the U.S. reported 'Dallas' attack was limited in the final. ORTG, which means expected score per 100 points, was only 106.7 points. The Boston Celtics' defense was that good, but they confirmed that Doncic and Irving's super duo alone could not effectively penetrate the playoff's strong defense.'Thompson's offensive efficiency declined, but he could rebound. His defense has also declined compared to his heyday, but it's still not bad. In addition, Thompson has an explosive shooting power. If there is a Thompson with a good off-the-ball move, not only will there be more breakthrough attacks by Irving and Doncic, but Dallas' offensive routes will be more diversified.



sfryu@sportschosun.com