It's time for Mavericks to have an uncomfortable Klay Thompson discussion
The Dallas Mavericks are not getting the expected performance from Klay Thompson this season and need to address how to replace him sooner rather than later. Their lineup struggles with spacing, and playing Thompson was crucial to making their big, spacing-challenged roster work.
However, the team's current structure seems to undervalue playmaking, shot creation, and floor-spacing, which are vital in today's NBA. The roster features talented big men like Anthony Davis and others, but the problem is that most players are power forwards and centers, lacking the balance required for success.
Mavericks' lineup challenges
Their most talented lineup, used to start the season, included Flagg at point guard, Davis at power forward, and P.J. Washington alongside Dereck Lively II. While this lineup is physically imposing and strong defensively, it falls short on shooting.
The original idea was for Klay Thompson, one of the greatest shooters ever, to fix this problem by stretching defenses with his perimeter shooting, creating space for Davis, Flagg, and Washington to operate inside. Unfortunately, Thompson is no longer performing at the elite level he showed during his time playing with Stephen Curry.
"The idea was that Klay Thompson, one of the greatest shooters of all time, could help solve the issue. 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."
"The theory would perhaps make more sense if Thompson was playing up to that level, but he is no longer the same player that he was playing alongside Stephen Curry for all of those years."
Summary
The Mavericks face a pressing dilemma as Klay Thompson's diminishing impact forces them to rethink their lineup strategy in a league where shooting and spacing are crucial.
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