Free agent guard Klay Thompson has signed a three-year, $50 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks, concluding his legendary 13-year tenure with the Golden State Warriors, sources informed ESPN on Monday.
Thompson’s decision to join the Mavericks was largely driven by his desire to compete for a fifth NBA championship with the reigning Western Conference champions.
The agreement, facilitated by his agent Greg Lawrence of Wasserman, involved a complex multi-team sign-and-trade. As part of the deal, Mavericks guard/forward Josh Green will be traded to the Charlotte Hornets, and the Warriors will receive two second-round picks.
Dallas will send its own 2031 second-round pick and the less favorable of the 76ers’ or Nuggets’ 2025 second-round pick, according to sources.
Thompson and Lawrence discussed the specifics of the move with Mavericks GM Nico Harrison and VP Michael Finley at the Bottle Inn in Hermosa Beach, California.
While the Lakers were a compelling option for Thompson, the financial benefits of residing in Texas versus California, combined with the Mavericks’ recent near-championship performance, heavily influenced his decision.
During the final season of Thompson’s remarkable career with the Warriors, contract negotiations and his impending free agency created tension between him and the franchise. His departure seemed more likely as the season progressed.
Thompson, 34, saw his role change throughout the season, which increased his dissatisfaction. He was pulled from the closing lineup in early February and later moved to a bench role that month. He averaged 17.9 points last season, his lowest since the 2012-13 season.
Thompson’s legacy with the Warriors is firmly established. The trio of Curry, Thompson, and Draymond Green accumulated 518 wins in the regular season and playoffs, ranking sixth all-time. Their 98 playoff victories together are third in NBA history, and their four championships are tied with Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker for the most by an All-NBA trio over the past 50 years, according to ESPN Stats & Information.
The Warriors expressed their gratitude in a statement, saying they look forward to retiring his No. 11 jersey.
“The joy and happiness that Klay brought to Warriors fans and Dub Nation worldwide cannot be overstated,” the statement read. “His ability to deliver in high-pressure moments on the biggest stage, including numerous Game 6 heroics, has defined his career.
“Klay’s legacy will endure, and we eagerly await the day we can retire his #11 jersey at Chase Center, alongside the other Warriors legends who have shaped this dynasty, including Klay himself.
“We thank Klay for his contributions and wish him all the best as he embarks on this new chapter.”
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