Klay Thompson’s departure from the Golden State Warriors was reportedly an emotional affair. The veteran sharpshooter had spent 13 successful years in the Bay Area. However, the chance of a fresh start with the Dallas Mavericks was an opportunity the veteran appears to be relishing.
During a recent episode of the “Hoops Adjacent” podcast, Joe Lacob detailed his conversation with Thompson as the veteran broke the news that he would be leaving the franchise in free agency. Thompson was an unrestricted free agent and could discuss terms with any team in the league.
“After he had called me and told me he had made the decision to move on, this was before free agency, he called me and was very nice about it and explained he didn’t like making the call but he said ‘I feel I just have to do this,” Lacob said. “Right after that, it was the next day, there was a few days before the beginning of free agency, I sent him that video of me bowing to him and it was just my way of saying he meant so much to us and so much to this organization and everything we’ve accomplished as a group and that I still feel that way about him.”
Lacob and Mike Dunleavy Jr. pivoted following Thompson’s departure, securing Buddy Hield’s services. Hield is among the best-volume three-point shooters in the NBA.
Nevertheless, Thompson’s absence will be felt throughout the organization, especially in the locker room. He has been a vital part of the organization for over a decade. Now, he will be competing against his former team as the Mavericks bid to make another NBA Finals.
