Klay Thompson was not chosen as the best player on the court: Klay only thrives with the help of Luka and Kyrie.

Klay Thompson, one of the most prolific shooters in NBA history, has made a name for himself with his sharp shooting and ability to deliver under pressure. However, since joining the Dallas Mavericks, critics have pointed out that Klay Thompson’s success largely depends on the presence of superstars Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. While Thompson remains an elite player in his own right, his role has shifted, making him more of a complementary piece rather than the leading star on the court.

Klay Thompson’s Role in the Dallas Mavericks

After years of success with the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson made a major move to the Dallas Mavericks, teaming up with Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. While this transition provided Thompson with a fresh start, it also redefined his role within the team.

In Dallas, Klay Thompson is not expected to carry the offensive load or act as the primary playmaker. Instead, his role revolves around taking advantage of open shots created by Luka’s court vision and Kyrie’s ability to draw defenders. This setup has allowed Thompson to excel as a shooter, but it has also raised questions about whether he can shine without such support.

“Klay isn’t the best player on the court,” one analyst remarked. “But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. He thrives in a system where stars like Luka and Kyrie take the pressure off him, allowing him to focus on what he does best—shooting.”

How Luka and Kyrie Help Klay Succeed

The partnership with Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving has been instrumental in Klay Thompson’s performance with the Mavericks. Luka’s ability to control the game, create scoring opportunities, and dominate the court with his basketball IQ opens up space for Thompson to find his rhythm. Meanwhile, Kyrie’s exceptional handles and scoring prowess keep defenders occupied, leaving Klay Thompson free to capitalize on open looks.

This dynamic allows Thompson to focus on his role as a spot-up shooter and secondary scorer rather than taking on the responsibility of being the team’s primary star.

“Luka and Kyrie make it easier for Klay,” said a Mavericks insider. “They draw so much attention that defenders forget about him, and that’s when he’s at his most dangerous.”

Despite these advantages, critics argue that Klay Thompson’s reliance on others diminishes his standing as a truly great player. While his shooting ability remains top-tier, his impact often depends on the contributions of his superstar teammates.

The Debate: Complementary Star or Independent Leader?

The question of whether Klay Thompson can succeed independently has divided fans and analysts. On one hand, his ability to hit clutch shots and thrive in high-pressure situations is undeniable. On the other hand, his reliance on Luka and Kyrie for offensive opportunities has led some to question his ability to lead a team on his own.

“Klay has always been a great shooter, but he’s not the kind of player who creates his own shot or dominates games by himself,” one analyst noted. “He needs a system—and teammates—that maximize his strengths.”

While some view this as a limitation, others argue that Thompson’s role as a complementary star is what makes him so valuable. By focusing on his strengths and fitting seamlessly into a team-oriented system, Klay Thompson contributes to his team’s success in ways that go beyond individual stats.

Conclusion

Klay Thompson’s success with the Dallas Mavericks highlights his ability to adapt and thrive in a new role. While he may not be the best player on the court, his partnership with Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving allows him to focus on what he does best—shooting the basketball at an elite level.

The debate over Thompson’s role as a complementary star versus an independent leader will likely continue, but one thing is clear: with Luka and Kyrie by his side, Klay Thompson remains one of the most dangerous shooters in the NBA. As the Mavericks aim for success, Thompson’s ability to deliver when it matters most will be a key factor in their journey.