Klay Thompson says his move to the Dallas Mavericks is a “new beginning” after a “difficult” end to his career with the Golden State Warriors.
The 34-year-old ended his 13-year stay with the Warriors to join the Mavericks this week.
Thompson, the 11th overall pick in the 2011 draft by the Warriors, reached six NBA Finals between 2015 and 2022, winning four titles.
But the five-time All-Star point guard has struggled with injuries in recent years, missing nearly two years of action between 2019 and 2021 due to knee and Achilles issues.
Thompson’s contract with the Warriors was set to expire in June, but despite lobbying from teammate Stephen Curry for the franchise to extend his deal, the two parties were unable to reach an agreement.
“Coming here is a new beginning,” Thompson said.
“Feeling wanted again, like I add great value… It makes me excited to go out there and even work out after this press conference and get shots.”
Thompson, alluding to his strained relationship with the Warriors, added that there were times last year when “it was difficult” and not “as joyful as it has been in the past.”
Tatum signs record-breaking contract with Celtics
The Boston Celtics have tied Jayson Tatum to a new five-year contract worth a reported $314m (£245m).
The 26-year-old led the Celtics to a record 18th NBA title last season with a five-game victory over the Mavericks.
Tatum, the third overall draft pick in 2017, surpasses teammate Jaylen Brown as the best player in the NBA.
Brad Stevens, the Celtics’ president of basketball operations, said the franchise is “obviously ecstatic” that Tatum, a four-time NBA all-star, has chosen to commit his future to them.
Elsewhere, LeBron James’ hopes of playing with his son Bronny for the La Lakers are still alive after he signed a new contract on the west coast.
The 39-year-old signed a two-year extension with the Lakers last week in what will likely be his final contract with the franchise.
The deal is worth $104m (£81.5m).
Bronny was selected by the Lakers in the second round of the NBA Draft in June.
LeBron has been open about his ambition to become the first father-son partnership in NBA history by playing with Bronny before the end of his career.
