Mavericks Training Camp Day 1: Klay Thompson’s Transition, Naji Marshall a Standout, and Dereck Lively II's Post-Up Progress

The Dallas Mavericks officially kicked off their training camp with excitement and purpose at the University of Las Vegas, Nevada (UNLV). The addition of Klay Thompson, alongside the growth of their young core, has added intrigue to the team’s preparation for the season. Day 1 provided plenty to unpack, including Thompson’s first impressions of his new team, standout performances, and insights from head coach Jason Kidd on the team’s focus moving forward.

Here’s a detailed look at the key takeaways from the first day of training camp, including standouts, areas of emphasis, and more.

Klay Thompson’s Transition to Dallas Mavericks Begins

After spending his entire career with the Golden State Warriors, Thompson’s transition to the Mavericks represents a major change for the four-time NBA champion. He described the experience as “transferring schools” during his first media session at camp, emphasizing the excitement and nerves that come with joining a new team, especially one with championship aspirations.

“It feels like transferring schools, so it’s a feeling you want to embrace because it’s so rare,” Thompson explained. “Getting those butterflies as a player is awesome.”

Thompson noted that while the system in Dallas shares similarities with what he ran in Golden State—especially regarding defensive rotations—there are also subtle tweaks. He views this training camp as one of the most important of his career, given the need to adjust quickly and solidify his role within a new system.

“It’s not an overstatement. I think it’s true, and I’m approaching it that way,” he added.

Standout Performances: Naji Marshall Impresses

Among the highlights of Day 1 was the standout performance of Naji Marshall, who drew praise from Thompson for his impressive showing during the first practice session. Marshall, known for his versatility and defense, showcased an offensive arsenal that included floaters, pull-ups, and mid-range jumpers.

“Naji was incredible,” Thompson stated. “The guy was making floaters, pull-ups, and just played really well. He even scored a couple of times on me. His jumper was fluid, and his mid-range game was nice. So, yeah, Naji really impressed me today.”

Marshall’s ability to contribute on both ends of the floor could make him a valuable asset as the Mavericks continue to round out their rotation.

Dereck Lively II Making Strides in the Post

Another notable development from the first day of camp was the progress of rookie center Dereck Lively II. Lively, who played with the starters, showcased his ability in the post, displaying a mix of moves and finishes that excited both teammates and coaches alike. Kidd hinted at Lively’s improvement in the post being a possible factor for the Mavericks

“He was great. He’s another one ready to go. He was there with the first group, in the post, there were a lot of post-ups. He displayed something he’s maybe added here,” Kidd explained. “I think that makes people happy to see that. A lot of us were able to see that he finished with both his right and left [hands], and that’s something that hopefully, can give us another weapon.”

Lively’s development is crucial for the Mavericks, who need a strong presence in the paint to complement their perimeter-oriented offense. His ability to contribute offensively while anchoring the defense would further solidify his impact.

Additionally, considering how Thompson thrived so much playing out of Split action in Golden State, Lively’s ability to operate in the post remains something to monitor. It would be up to the Mavericks to integrate those elements, though.

Injury Update: No Major Concerns So Far

While injuries are always a concern during the grind of an NBA training camp, the Mavericks emerged from Day 1 without any major injury concerns. Aside from Maxi Kleber and Kessler Edwards, all players were able to participate in the session and get up and down the court, which Kidd emphasized as a key objective for the day.

“Just to get up and down, sweat, hear the coaches’ voices, and hear each other’s voices,” Kidd said. “I thought we did a really good job of that this morning, and we’ll do it again this evening.”

With no significant injuries to report, the team is optimistic that they will continue building momentum throughout the rest of the week in Las Vegas.

Key Emphasis: Terminology, Team Chemistry, and Leadership

One of the primary focuses for the Mavericks in the early stages of camp is ensuring that new players quickly learn the team’s terminology. In contrast, returning players get a refresher on the schemes and concepts.

Kidd stressed the importance of teaching during the early days of camp, especially with a handful of new faces joining the roster.

“It’s always teaching,” Kidd said. “For the new guys, it’s about learning the terminology. For the returning guys, it’s more of a refresher. I thought it was a great first day.”

Beyond the X’s and O’s, the Mavericks are also placing a heavy emphasis on team chemistry and leadership. The addition of Thompson, a four-time NBA champion, brings another voice of experience to the locker room, which Kidd believes will be invaluable for the team’s younger players.

“He’s been there—he’s won, he’s lost, and he understands what it takes to get there. So for us, we have another resource to lean on,” Kidd said, adding that Thompson’s leadership extends beyond his ability to shoot.

Klay Thompson’s Shooting Gravity: Adding New Dimensions to the Dallas Mavericks’ Offense

A major advantage of having Thompson on the Mavericks roster is the added dimension his shooting gravity brings to the team’s offensive schemes. As one of the best shooters in NBA history, Thompson draws defensive attention wherever he goes, which opens up opportunities for his teammates.

Kidd noted how Thompson’s ability to play off the ball and set screens adds another layer to the Mavericks’ offensive versatility.

“A lot of times, the guy who sets the screen isn’t open, but Klay’s gravity is big,” Kidd explained. “Being able to take two defenders with him is going to open things up for Luka [Dončić], Maxi [Kleber], and whoever’s setting screens for him. Even the smaller players can benefit from setting screens for him.”

In the limited viewing portion open for media, Thompson—the NBA’s leader in shots derived from off-ball screening actions last season—spent plenty of time working out of pindowns by either coming off to shoot or setting the screen himself. That would surely factor into the Maverick’s offensive plans. His gravity in these sequences adds an intriguing value, opening up the rest of the offense.

Klay Thompson and Luka Dončić: Building Chemistry

One of the most exciting aspects of Thompson’s arrival in Dallas is his potential partnership with Luka Dončić. Both players are known for their high basketball IQs and complementary skill sets, and Thompson is already eager to play off of Dončić’s playmaking ability.

“Luka is one of the best players in the world with the ball in his hands, so it’s a pleasure to be on the recipient end of that,” Thompson said. “He’s going to generate a ton of great looks for me.”

Dončić’s ability to command double teams and create open shots for teammates will be a boon for Thompson, who is one of the best catch-and-shoot players in NBA history. The duo could form one of the most potent offensive combinations in the league, especially with Kyrie Irving in the mix as well.

Looking Ahead: Continuation of Camp and Building on Momentum

As the Mavericks continue their camp in Las Vegas until Oct. 5, the focus will remain on building chemistry and solidifying roles within the team. The team will ramp up with two-a-days starting on Wednesday but will have an off-day on Thursday before a final set of practices on Friday.