"I am still trying to move on" - Klay Thompson opens up on emotions facing Steph Curry & former teammates ahead of Mavericks vs Warriors clash
Over the summer, Klay Thompson went through a massive career change by leaving the Golden State Warriors for the Dallas Mavericks. As he gets ready to face his former team, the sharpshooting guard opened up on where he's at mentally.
In their first NBA Cup game, the Mavericks will challenge Steph Curry and the red-hot Warriors Tuesday night. However, the biggest storyline in this matchup will be Thompson's first game back in Golden State since his departure.
During his media availability Sunday night, Klay Thompson touched on his emotional state heading into Tuesday's game. He's grateful for his time with the franchise but is more focused on the new chapter of his career.
“I cherish it, but I am still trying to move on and win here,” Thompson said.
Now with the Mavericks, Thompson finds himself playing alongside the star duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. His play has been up and down while he continues to find his foot, averaging 13.8 points and shooting 35.4% from deep.
Following his long tenure with the franchise, the Warriors plan to pay homage to Thompson in his return. While on "NBA Today" last week, Malika Andrews touched on what the theme in the arena will be on Tuesday.
Klay Thompson keeping proper mindset heading into return matchup vs Warriors
It goes without saying that Tuesday will be a night filled with emotion for Klay Thompson. During his time with the Warriors, he got to win multiple championships and be a key member of a dynasty. That said, the former All-Star is maintaining the proper mindset as he gets ready to return.
While further diving into the topic Sunday, Thompson admitted that it's pointless to get caught up in the past. Instead, all his energy is going into helping his new team win moving forward..
“That chapter is over,” Thompson said. “I’m in the midst of trying to win here. There is no point in missing anything when we have such a great opportunity here to be great. There’s no point in looking back."
Klay Thompson isn't wrong, as he still finds himself in a position to contend with the Mavericks. They are fresh off making the NBA Finals last year and have one of the league's top duos. With his playstyle and championship experience, Thompson could help Dallas get over the hump.
Through the first three weeks of the season, the Mavericks are in the middle of a stacked Western Conference. They find themselves at 5-5 through their first 10 games, good for 11th place.
As he gears up for his first game in Golden State as an opponent, Thompson has an opportunity to fully put an end to that chapter of his career.