Klay Thompson, the sharpshooting guard who left the Golden State Warriors last summer to join the Dallas Mavericks, addressed a question that many fans have been pondering: would he have made the same free agency decision if he had known how the season would unfold?
Following the Mavericks’ season-ending loss to the Memphis Grizzlies in the play-in tournament, Thompson was asked if he would have chosen differently in free agency had he known the twists and turns that awaited him in Dallas. His reply was firm and introspective:
“Don’t do this to me. Don’t do that to me. Don’t do that. That’s kind of a ridiculous question. I don’t own a time machine, and I don’t believe in looking back.”
“Don’t do this to me.” 😕
— Klay when asked if he would’ve still joined the Mavs knowing what he knows now
(h/t @ohnohedidnt24)pic.twitter.com/9kaLj4Axk7
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) April 19, 2025
Thompson’s first year with the Mavericks was far from what he envisioned when he signed a three-year, $50 million contract last summer. The team, fresh off an NBA Finals appearance, underwent significant changes, including the shocking trade of Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. Injuries to key players like Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis further derailed the Mavericks’ season, leaving Thompson to navigate a roster in flux.
Thompson’s response to the question about his free agency decision highlights his belief in perseverance and adaptability.
“If I did that my whole career, I would not be where I’m at and I wouldn’t have been able to persevere through two really hard injuries,” he said,
referencing the ACL and Achilles injuries that sidelined him for two consecutive seasons earlier in his career.
For Thompson, the decision to join the Mavericks was made with the best intentions, and he remains committed to making the most of his time in Dallas.
“I’m here in Dallas, and I enjoyed my time and I’m looking forward to the future,” he added.
