Klay Thompson has a reduced role for the Dallas Mavericks has Jason Kidd tries to look for the right combination. The four-time champion is now coming off the bench and he has been a willing player despite the changes, despite the trade rumors. He’s had some struggle but his shots are coming back now.
Thompson went 6 out of 9 from three in Mavs’ win over Brooklyn Nets. He was 2 out of 6 in loss to the Chicago Bulls. He was 6 out of 11 in their victory over Utah Jazz where he exploded for 23 points.
The 35-year-old shooting guard has hit multiple threes in six of the last seven games. Witnessing this shade of throwback Klay has rookie Cooper Flagg feeling appreciative of the moment, especially because he was a Warriors fan growing up.
“I remember I was 9, a lot of years in a row, watching them play. Just being a fan of basketball in general, I was a fan of the Warriors,” he told reporters post game as reported by Abby Jones of DLLS Sports.
“I was watching him growing up so it’s crazy you know. It’s amazing to be alongside Cap Klay this year. . . to his leadership. . just being there every night. . . been amazing for us.”
Cooper Flagg says it’s a pleasure to play alongside Klay Thompson, someone he grew up watching as a young kid.
He mentioned he might have been 9 watching Klay’s 2015 Finals Championship and shares what it’s like to share the floor with the 4x Champion as a vet/rook dynamic. pic.twitter.com/SvNIarPXHQ
— Abby Jones (@_abigaiiiil) January 13, 2026
Flagg finished the Monday night win with a team high 27 points.
Klay Thompson savors Year 15
Thompson’s role is not the same during his peak years but contrary what would other feel, that it is a demotion, he feels grateful to still be playing.
The former Golden State Warriors star also expressed love for Dallas and their fans.
“It’s been great honestly. Year 15. Playing great minutes in the NBA, in a great city and I’ve been enjoying every second. I love the game and I love being healthy enough to be out there so much,” he said.
“It’s a true blessing and I’ll never take for granted those years I’ve missed because it gave me great perspective.”
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