Klay Thompson stays confident amid early-season challenges with the Mavericks, believing in his process and knowing “bigger nights are ahead.”
DALLAS — Despite a challenging start to his first season with the Dallas Mavericks, Klay Thompson remains steadfast in his belief that the work he’s putting in will pay off. Even when his shots don’t fall at his usual clip, his perspective remains grounded in gratitude and perseverance.
Thompson is averaging 14.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists through 15 games this season, shooting 39.7% from the field and 37.0% from beyond the arc on 8.5 attempts per game. These numbers are below the lofty standards set during his championship years, but the 12-year veteran is far from discouraged.
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“As a captain of the seas, I love any boating analogy,” Thompson said after Tuesday’s 132-91 win over the New Orleans Pelicans. “If you’re going to encounter rough waters—especially on a long voyage—the most important thing is to stay the course and believe in yourself.”
Thompson’s Philosophy on Weathering Slumps
Tuesday’s game against New Orleans highlighted Thompson’s ability to bounce back. After a rough 1-of-11 shooting against Oklahoma City on Sunday, Thompson responded with a strong outing, scoring 19 points on 6-of-15, including 5-of-9 from three. He played a key role in the Mavericks’ best offensive quarter of the season, helping the team score 44 points in the opening 12 minutes.
“Klay’s ability to rebound after a tough game is what makes him a pro,” head coach Jason Kidd said. “He doesn’t let one bad night define him. He comes back focused, ready to contribute. That’s why he’s one of the best shooters this game has ever seen.”
Thompson’s early scoring created the separation Dallas needed to dominate a depleted Pelicans team, including a semi-transition handoff from Kyrie Irving resulting in a quick trigger three over two defenders. His sharpshooting stretched the floor and opened up opportunities for teammates to make plays.
“Luka really set the tone defensively with those steals early on, and I just wanted to do my part offensively,” Thompson said. “When we’re all clicking like that, it’s a lot of fun to be out there.”
Thompson’s confidence isn’t just talk—it’s rooted in years of experience navigating the highs and lows of a grueling NBA schedule. Having missed two full seasons due to injury, he knows better than most how to maintain perspective.
“I’ve been through so many seasons like this, where you might be inconsistent from the arc, but it just takes one great day—one explosive night—for me to really get rolling,” Thompson said. “It used to eat at me when I’d have an off night, but now I know the proof is in the pudding.”
Thompson Sees “Bigger Nights Ahead”
While Thompson’s shooting percentages may not reflect his career standards, he’s confident his numbers will improve as the season progresses. His familiarity with slumps and unshakable work ethic assures him that better days are ahead.
“I tell my strength coach all the time: I’ve been here before,” he said. “I just have to stay the course, keep putting in the work, and it’ll come. That’s how it’s always been for me.”
The Mavericks continue to rely on Thompson’s shooting and leadership, and his performance against New Orleans reminded him of how impactful he can be when things start to click.
“I’m so grateful to be playing every night and to be healthy,” Thompson said. “That’s why the shooting nights when I’m off don’t bother me as much anymore. It’s a long season, and I know there are bigger nights ahead.”
As the Mavericks head into a challenging three-game road trip that begins in Denver on Friday, Thompson’s confidence could be the steadying force they need. For a player who’s built his career on resilience and precision, the best may still be yet to come.
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