In a surprising turn of events, Klay Thompson, the five-time NBA All-Star and two-time All-NBA selection, has left the Golden State Warriors after 13 years to join the Western Conference champion Dallas Mavericks. The multiteam deal involving the Warriors, Mavericks, and Charlotte Hornets will be executed as a sign-and-trade of a three-year, $50 million contract for Thompson.
Thompson's departure marks the end of an era in Golden State. He was part of the Splash Brothers trio alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, helping the team win four NBA championships. However, financial constraints led to the Warriors not being able to offer Thompson a lucrative contract extension.
Thompson's jersey number (11) in Golden State will be retired in commemoration of his time with the team. He is sixth on the NBA's all-time 3-pointers made list with 2,481 and missed two entire seasons due to injuries.
The Mavericks, who just went to the NBA Finals, are looking forward to adding Thompson as a shooter to help stars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. The team is excited about the prospect of having another championship contender in their roster.
Despite reports of other teams offering more lucrative deals, Thompson chose the Mavericks over other suitors such as the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers reportedly offered a multi-year contract to Thompson in a sign-and-trade deal, but the Warriors were not interested in bringing back D'Angelo Russell.
Thompson's departure from Golden State is a significant loss for the team and its fans. However, he leaves with his legacy secured as one of the greatest players in franchise history.