Klay Thompson selected the Dallas Mavericks over the Los Angeles Lakers because of the perception that he could possibly be the lacking piece for a crew that had simply reached The Finals. The Mavericks additionally promised him a beginning spot.
“Truthfully, it is rejuvenated me and performed one thing I wanted unhealthy only for my psychological and my profession,” Thompson stated. “So, I actually really feel the love right here, and I really feel extremely valued that I can do nice issues.”
Thompson received 4 championships with the Golden State Warriors, however the two sides reached some extent the place a separation would profit everybody.
“I am so grateful for all the things I skilled at Golden State,” Thompson stated. “However I imply, I’ve seen a few of my favourite athletes pivot and have large success. Once I consider Shaq[uille O’Neal] leaving the Lakers and profitable a hoop or Tom Brady profitable one with Tampa Bay, it has been performed earlier than.
“That was my fundamental aim at this level in my profession. I simply need to win, and this crew is so shut. I simply wished to be part of that when July 1 hit [free agency]. It is human nature to consider your future. As current as you are imagined to be, we’re all human. All of us take into consideration that. Now, to know I am locked in for a couple of years right here, it permits me to be free.”
Thompson accepted a three-year, $50 million supply from Dallas despite the fact that the Lakers had mentioned a longer-term deal for more cash.
Thompson finally bought to go away Golden State on his personal phrases.
“I simply, like, freely considered it on the finish. I used to be like, ‘Do I’ve extra to offer [the Warriors] or would going someplace else encourage me so as to add a brand new chapter to my legacy?'” Thompson stated. “And that is what I made a decision on. And I have not regarded again since.”
