It's Time for Mavericks to Reassess Klay Thompson's Role
The Dallas Mavericks are struggling to gain any benefits from Klay Thompson this season, prompting a need for an earlier conversation about replacing him. Their lineup, built around big players, faces challenges in playmaking, shot creation, and spacing, which are crucial in today's NBA.
Team Composition and Challenges
The Mavericks feature talented players such as Anthony Davis and others, mostly playing as power forwards and centers. However, their roster lacks balance since it is mostly composed of 4s and 5s, which affects their overall team chemistry and effectiveness.
One of the strongest lineups early in the season included Flagg at point guard, Davis at power forward, along with P.J. Washington and Dereck Lively II. While this lineup was physically imposing and strong defensively, it lacked sufficient shooting capability.
Klay Thompson's Expected Role and Reality
The plan relied on Thompson's reputation as one of the greatest shooters ever to stretch the defense and create space for teammates like Davis, Flagg, and Washington to operate inside. His perimeter shooting was supposed to be a critical solution to the spacing problems.
"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."
Unfortunately, Thompson has not performed at that level this season and is no longer the same player he was during his years alongside Stephen Curry.
Conclusion
The Mavericks must seriously evaluate how long they can rely on Thompson given his current performance and whether seeking alternatives might better serve the team’s long-term success.
Author's summary: The Mavericks' heavy frontcourt lineup struggles without effective shooting, and with Thompson's decline, the team faces a critical moment to rethink their strategy.