Klay Thompson has quickly found his stride with the Dallas Mavericks, enjoying a standout performance against his former team with a 29-point game. However, the Mavs guard is confident that even more is to come, admitting that it’s taken some time to adjust after leaving the Golden State Warriors.
Thompson, speaking at a Mavs practice press conference on December 18, acknowledged that while he’s played well, there’s still room for improvement for both himself and the team. He pointed out the importance of teamwork in Dallas’ bid to win their first NBA Championship since 2011.
Klay Thompson’s Message on Team Contributions
Thompson emphasized that the Mavericks’ goal of winning an NBA title requires contributions from every player on the roster. As the team pushes towards postseason success, he highlighted that every game and performance counts. “There’s still a level I can reach, and I think we can as a team,” he said. “It’s all about how we come together and help each other.”
Klay Thompson on Quentin Grimes’ Impact
During the press conference, Thompson was asked about the recent rise of Quentin Grimes, a player who has made a significant impact since joining the Mavericks. Grimes, acquired in a July trade that sent Tim Hardaway Jr. to the Detroit Pistons along with three second-round picks, has been a vital bench contributor for the Mavericks. Thompson was quick to praise Grimes’ role on the team, saying:
“Q’s been huge for us, especially when we’ve been under-manned. I think in that Portland game when he had 28 points on 13 shots, those wins are huge, especially when it comes to seeding time.”
Thompson added that Grimes has delivered crucial performances, noting that the Mavs wouldn’t be where they are without his contributions.
“Q’s been a great addition. He’s a comfortable shooter and two-way player, and he’s going to continue to make a huge impact for us.”
Grimes’ Role in the Mavericks’ Success
Quentin Grimes has proven himself to be an excellent addition to the Mavs roster, providing depth and versatility. Whether coming off the bench or stepping into the starting lineup, Grimes has delivered strong performances when needed. He recently scored 14 points in a Mavericks win over the Golden State Warriors, showcasing his ability to make an immediate impact.
Mavericks’ Strong Season and Upcoming Schedule
The Dallas Mavericks have had a strong start to the season, sitting in 5th place with a record of 17-9, just three wins behind the Oklahoma City Thunder (20-5) for the top spot in the Western Conference. Thompson made it clear that the tight competition in the West means that every single game matters. The Mavericks’ depth has been crucial to their rise in the standings, especially after a difficult start due to Luka Dončić’s early-season injuries.
Looking ahead, the Mavericks are set to face the LA Clippers in a double-header. The Clippers, currently in 9th place at 15-12, are hoping for the return of Kawhi Leonard to bolster their lineup. These upcoming games are crucial for both teams, as they continue to battle for better positioning in the standings.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for the Mavericks
With Klay Thompson finding his rhythm and Quentin Grimes emerging as a key contributor, the Dallas Mavericks are shaping up to be a serious contender this season. Thompson’s focus on team success and his recognition of Grimes’ impact highlight the depth and potential within the Mavericks’ roster. As the team looks to make a strong push towards the postseason, the contributions from every player, including Grimes, will be crucial in their quest for an NBA Championship.
