Klay Thompson led the Mavs to their first win in the post-Luka era and snapped the Celtics’ four-game winning streak.
The Dallas Mavericks secured an impressive 127-120 road victory over the Boston Celtics on Thursday, marking their first significant triumph in the post-Luka Doncic era. While many expected the Celtics to extend their winning streak to five games, it was Klay Thompson who stole the show, proving to be the key factor in Dallas’ breakthrough win.
Klay Thompson Finds His Rhythm in Dallas
Playing at TD Garden, Thompson delivered his best performance since joining the Mavericks, finishing the night with 25 points on 11-of-17 shooting, including 3-of-6 from beyond the arc. His exceptional display not only propelled the Mavericks to victory but also drew high praise from Kyrie Irving, who credited Thompson for bringing much-needed confidence and composure to the team.
Since his move to the Mavericks, there has been speculation about whether Klay Thompson could still perform at the elite level that made him a four-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors. However, against the Celtics, he showed glimpses of his vintage self.
Thompson’s efficiency from the field was a major boost for Dallas, especially in critical moments of the game when the Mavericks needed a clutch performance. Whether it was hitting deep three-pointers or making mid-range jumpers, Thompson displayed the smooth shooting stroke that made him one of the most feared scorers in the league.
His ability to thrive under pressure was evident, as he not only kept the Mavericks in the game but also helped them execute a strong finish to snap the Celtics’ winning streak.
Kyrie Irving Praises Thompson’s Leadership
Following the game, Kyrie Irving, who also had a strong performance with 19 points and four steals, was quick to highlight Klay Thompson’s impact.
“Klay was very comfortable in this building,” Irving told TNT’s Allie LaForce in a post-game interview. “You could see it—he was very confident coming in. He helped us stay locked in during practice and kept everyone mentally focused.”
Irving’s words suggest that Thompson’s experience and championship mentality played a crucial role in keeping the Mavericks composed in a hostile environment. Given that the Celtics boast one of the best home-court advantages in the NBA, having a player like Thompson, who has been in countless high-pressure situations, helped Dallas maintain their poise throughout the game.
What This Means for the Mavericks Moving Forward
This victory over the Boston Celtics is more than just a regular-season win for the Mavericks. It marks a turning point as the team adjusts to life without Luka Doncic, who has been the face of the franchise in recent years.
With Klay Thompson finding his rhythm and Kyrie Irving stepping up, the Mavericks have shown they still possess the firepower needed to compete with top teams in the league. If Thompson continues to perform at this level, Dallas could quickly establish themselves as a serious playoff contender in the Western Conference.
Furthermore, this game reinforced the idea that Thompson’s leadership and experience could be just as valuable as his shooting. As the season progresses, the chemistry between Thompson and Irving will be crucial in determining how far the Mavericks can go.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for the Mavericks?
While it’s still early to make definitive conclusions, the Mavericks’ victory over the Celtics signals a new chapter for the team. Klay Thompson’s breakout performance not only helped them snap a tough four-game winning streak but also showcased his ability to thrive in key moments.
If Thompson can maintain this level of play, he could prove to be the game-changer that Dallas needs in the absence of Luka Doncic. With Kyrie Irving and Thompson leading the charge, the Mavericks might just surprise everyone as the NBA season unfolds.
