The Dallas Mavericks believed Klay Thompson could be the piece that pushed them toward contention and stabilized the backcourt. More than a year later, the plan has not materialized.

Thompson posted 23 points (7-13 FG, 6-11 3Pt, 3-3 FT), three rebounds and five assists across 29 minutes during Thursday's 116-114 loss to the Jazz.

The Dallas Mavericks have started training camp in preparation for the 2025-26 season, and there's a fresh new face for people to be excited about. The Dallas Mavericks lucked out and won the first overall pick on a 1.8% chance, which landed them Cooper Flagg.

But entering the holiday, it wasn't clear whether Thompson would even play as he contended with a knee injury. Thompson had missed the Mavericks' last game against the Denver Nuggets earlier this week. Concerns about him missing the matchup have fortunately been quelled.

There were smoke signals in Memphis on Saturday night as the fiery clash between Klay Thompson and Ja Morant nearly erupted into a brawl on the court. Something’s been simmering between Thompson and Morant for some time now. That slow burn has now ...