When the Dallas Mavericks finished a Klay Thompson Signs and Trades Golden State Warriors, it was a big moment for the franchise. The Mavs landed a top free agent, who has proven a lot during his NBA career to the Warriors franchise.
Thompson’s arrival in Dallas marked the beginning of a new era as he joined the dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. But Thompson brings much more than talent to Dallas.
For years, the Mavs have lacked traits in players to help them advance further in the NBA playoffs, and with Thompson’s resume, he will add traits that the Mavs have lacked.
The Mavs have needed those qualities for years, and by signing Thompson, they acquired qualities they lacked.
Thompson is one of the best 3-point shooters of all time and is an NBA champion, but there are also several other things he will help the Mavs with.
Most NBA fans remember Thompson for his 3-point shooting, but some might forget his defense. Thompson has been able to improve his defense to become a better all-around player. Thompson finished 11th in Defensive Player of the Year voting in 2018 and was named to the All-NBA Defensive Second Team in 2019.
Adding Thompson will make the Mavs a better defensive team. The Mavs defense was elite at the end of last season, and adding Thompson makes the defense even better.
Thompson spoke about how he wants to lock down defensively during his presentation press conference with Quentin Grimes and Naji Marshall.
“Playing against those two, that’s what they’re here for,” Thompson said. “Not because it’s pretty, but because they’re willing to do the dirty work. I’ve played against both of them before. So we’re going to have some battles in practice. I’m looking forward to it.”
Thompson said that besides Marshall and Grimes, he’s even more eager to help the Mavs improve their defense. Having Thompson as a teammate will help give the Mavs an extra boost in an area that can improve. An improving defense always makes a better team, and Thompson helps bring that trait to Dallas.
