Klay Thompson details the biggest system adjustments between the Warriors and Mavericks – NBC Sports Bay Area and California

After 13 years with one team, it will take some time for Klay Thompson to get used to the Dallas Mavericks' new offense.

The former Warriors guard is adjusting to his new team after signing a three-year, $50 million deal with Dallas this offseason. Speaking to reporters at Mavericks Media Day on Monday, Thompson was asked what he thought were the biggest adjustments for him throughout training camp and into the start of the 2024-25 NBA season.

“I think from an X’s and O’s perspective, I have to get used to competing against such good creators,” Thompson said. “In Golden State, it was a very movement-based offense. Just being able to play with Luka.” [Dončić] Over the last few days, his pick-and-roll skills have been perhaps the best I've ever seen. It's going to be fun to play with him in these sets because he attracts so much attention and so many open looks from the outside, so I'll be there to knock them down.

“I think it will take me a few weeks to get used to this new system, but luckily the premiere isn't until the 22nd I think, so this pre-season could be the most important I've had in so many years … I know I'm a hooper and I can adapt accordingly, and I'm excited to do that.”

Thompson, who averaged more possessions (5.6) and points (6.2) off screen per game than the entire Mavericks team combined (3.6 possessions, 3.2 points) during the 2023-24 season Dallas is a unique offensive weapon, but he knows he will have to adapt to the existing system Dončić runs, which until Thompson's arrival contained fewer of the scheme elements with which he has found success over the years.

“This is exciting. It adds a whole new dimension to our team when we have a player like me who can tighten the defense by simply breaking the lane or by using an off-ball screen, a pindown and taking two defenders with him.” “, Thompson added. “But I know I have to get used to Luka of course, Luka is the system, he's an MVP front-runner and that's a big reason why I came here, the pressure he faces every night and to alleviate the defense he has.”

Thompson, a four-time NBA champion, five-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA player, has seen it all during his Hall of Fame career and should have no trouble adjusting to his new system.

And he'll have plenty of time to do so before his first game against the Warriors on Nov. 12 at Chase Center.

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