The Dallas Mavericks are not benefiting from Klay Thompson this season and must consider how to replace him sooner rather than later. The team relies heavily on Thompson to make their large, spacing-challenged lineups effective, but this necessity may be fading.
This season, the Mavericks are built in a way that seems to overlook the importance of playmaking, shot creation, and floor spacing in today’s NBA. Despite having talented players like Anthony Davis, the roster is predominantly made up of power forwards (4s) and centers (5s), which presents difficulties in achieving a balanced lineup.
Their most skilled lineup appears to be the one commencing the season, featuring Flagg at point guard, Davis at power forward, along with P.J. Washington and Dereck Lively II on the court. Although this group is defensively strong and impressive in the paint, it lacks sufficient shooting ability.
The Mavericks hoped that Klay Thompson, known as one of the greatest shooters ever, would resolve their spacing problems. His perimeter shooting was expected to keep defenders cautious and create scoring opportunities inside for Davis, Flagg, and Washington.
That his ability to shoot lights out from the perimeter would keep defenses honest and help crack open room on the interior for Davis and Flagg and Washington to score.
However, this would be more plausible if Thompson were performing at his former level. Unfortunately, he is not the same player he was during his prime alongside Stephen Curry.
The Mavericks face a critical need to rethink Klay Thompson's role as his current performance no longer supports their strategic spacing requirements.
The Dallas Mavericks are getting nothing good from Klay Thompson this season, and they have to discuss how to replace him sooner rather than later.
Author's summary: The Mavericks must address the decline in Klay Thompson’s impact and explore alternatives to improve their spacing and offensive balance this season.