Former Sports Illustrated reporter Andrew Sharp had some choice words about The Dallas Mavericks‘ signature of Klay Thompsonthe four-time champion with the Golden State Warriors and the all-time leading scorer in shots after reception.
In his podcast, “The greatest of all speeches“Along with fellow writer Ben Golliver, Sharp has not minced words in his critiques of the new Maverick, arguing that Thompson cannot simply be a Tim Hardaway Jr. replacement, and should also not play more than 20 minutes per game, which Jason Kidd “If they play Klay, it’s probably bad news for the Mavs, and if they don’t play Klay, then maybe Klay is a problem,” Sharp said this summer.
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He also talked about Thompson’s decline on defense and how it would be “hard to imagine this guy being a part of the Mavericks’ top lineup.” While he’s right on the defensive end, as it’s true that his athleticism has declined and his lateral quickness has been affected, his claim that Thompson was “that bad” on offense is a bit of a stretch, especially considering what he’ll be able to do in a new offense with updated pieces.
That’s not to say the Warriors have managed to overshadow what they accomplished, of course. They’re one of the greatest American sports dynasties of all time, and their four titles will be remembered for as long as the NBA exists. But Golden State is a team with many elements past their prime.
This Dallas team has youth, playoff experience and an established back line with Luka Doncic And Kyrie IrvingThompson may not be the player he was a few years ago, but in the Mavericks’ offensive system, he should have no trouble contributing, even if it’s in a different role than he’s usually accustomed to.
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