The Golden State Warriors are reportedly considering a major move that would thrill their fanbase: a potential reunion with legendary sharpshooter and four-time NBA champion Klay Thompson. With the NBA trade deadline approaching, the franchise is actively seeking to enhance its three-point shooting arsenal for the playoff push.
Why Warriors Are Targeting Shooting Help
The Warriors' strategy became evident with the recent signing of veteran guard Seth Curry. The need for consistent, high-level outside shooting in a system built around it is paramount. Curry made an immediate impact in his debut, scoring 14 points on an impressive 85.7% from the field and 66.7% from three-point range against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite this promising start, team management continues to explore options for adding more depth and firepower.
The shooting guard position has been a revolving door for Golden State this season. Rookie Will Richard has not solidified his spot, while Brandin Podziemski has shown inconsistency as a tested starter. This instability, as highlighted by analyst Nick San Miguel of Blue Man Hoop, creates an opening for a familiar and proven solution.
Klay Thompson's Current Situation in Dallas
The speculation gained momentum due to the uncertain climate surrounding the Dallas Mavericks. The franchise is in a state of transition after firing general manager Nico Harrison, leading to rumors that the team might trade some of its higher-salary veterans. Klay Thompson, who is on a $50 million contract, finds himself at the center of these discussions.
Thompson's 2025 season with the Mavericks has been a mix of brilliance and struggle. Through 21 games, the 6-foot-5 guard is averaging 11.1 points per game. His shooting percentages have dipped, with a 37.4% field goal rate and 35.4% from beyond the arc, notably lower than his stellar career three-point average of 41.0%. His performances have fluctuated wildly, from games where he looked like his old, dominant self to others where his impact was minimal.
The Sentimental and Strategic Case for a Reunion
Bringing Klay Thompson back to the Bay Area would be a move laden with both emotion and basketball logic. Thompson was an integral part of all four Warriors championships alongside Stephen Curry. As Curry's legendary career enters its later stages, the franchise might see value in reuniting the iconic "Splash Brothers" for one more potential title run.
The potential benefits for the Warriors are clear:
- Instant system familiarity: Thompson knows head coach Steve Kerr's schemes and philosophy intimately.
- Elite playoff experience: He brings a wealth of championship-level knowledge.
- Floor spacing: Even with recent struggles, his reputation as a shooter commands defensive attention.
- Second-unit scoring: He could provide a major spark for a bench that needs stability.
However, expectations would need to be managed. Thompson is not the perennial 20-point scorer he once was. Yet, his mere presence on the court, his veteran leadership, and the possibility of him finding a rhythm back in a comfortable environment could be invaluable for a team chasing another championship in the Curry era.
For the Warriors' passionate fanbase, such a trade would represent a powerful closing of a circle, offering a chance to celebrate a core player who helped define a golden era of the franchise. While this remains in the realm of speculation, the alignment of Golden State's needs, Dallas's potential roster recalibration, and Thompson's unique history makes this a rumor with significant substance.