Mavericks’ Klay Thompson Sends Warning to Rest of NBA

Klay Thompson is preparing for his second season with the Dallas Mavericks. The four-time NBA champion left the Golden State Warriors last summer, teaming up with Kyrie Irving and (at the time) Luka Doncic. 

During a recent appearance on CLNS Media’s “Showtime With Michael Cooper” podcast, Thompson detailed his excitement and motivation ahead of the 2025-26 season.

“I really believe (the Mavericks will play well),” Thompson said. “I mean, AD (Anthony Davis), when he’s healthy, he is the best power forward, maybe of my generation… I think we personally have the best frontcourt in the NBA when we’re healthy. We have so much depth… And then getting a guy like D-Lo (D’Angelo Russell) and having guard depth, I’m just really excited.”

Thompson continued.

“I never thought I would be in Dallas, but it’s been an awesome transition. I’m the oldest guy on the team, it’s crazy how quickly that happens. I gotta lead these guys with my voice…So, I’m really excited. I’m actually gonna go to the gym now. I haven’t been this motivated in years.”

Thompson’s comments are certainly a warning to the rest of the NBA. While he’s undoubtedly past his prime, his experience and shot-making ability ensure he’s still a high-level threat.

Thompson played in 72 games for the Mavericks last season, averaging 14 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2 assists per game. He shot 41.2% from the field and 39.1% from 3-point range. His scoring versatility and interior defense will undoubtedly be key aspects of the Mavericks’ rotation next season.

Mark Cuban No Longer a Luka Doncic Fan

During a recent appearance on “The Arena,” former Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban admitted that he’s still a fan of Doncic the person, but will no longer support Doncic the NBA player.

“Off the court, love Luka to death,” Cuban said. “On the court, f**K him. I don’t want him to get hurt or anything.”

Cuban originally drafted Doncic with the third overall pick in 2018. However, he has since sold his majority stake in the franchise, meaning he had no control over the decision to trade Doncic for Anthony Davis at the February 2025 trade deadline.

Mavericks Are Still Contenders

Trading Doncic was undoubtedly the most controversial move in modern NBA history. However, that doesn’t mean the Mavericks aren’t talented enough to contend for a championship in the upcoming season. With Davis, Kyrie Irving, Thompson and now Cooper Flagg, there’s more than enough talent for Jason Kidd’s team to make an impact in the Western Conference.

Thompson is clearly high on the franchise’s strength in depth and ability to compete at the highest level. Nevertheless, the Western Conference is deep and incredibly talented, and the Mavericks have dealt with injury issues to two of their top stars in recent months.

Still, if they can stay healthy, Dallas will be a tough opponent for any team in the NBA. And with Thompson finding a new level of motivation, he will have a key role to play. Whether that’s enough to give the franchise a championship boost will remain to be seen, but it certainly can’t hurt.

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