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[Saba Sports News] Klay Thompson made his preseason debut with the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday, scoring 10 points, including a three-pointer and a free throw, in just the first half as the Mavs ease him back into action.
Thompson, shooting 3-9 overall and 3-5 from beyond the arc, added three assists and focused on defense—an area often questioned in recent years.
With offensive stars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving on the team, Thompson expressed excitement about focusing more on defense, aiming to prove he can still guard at a high level, “I want to get rid of that notion that I’m not the same defender I once was. I’m excited to prove people wrong.”
Mavs head coach Jason Kidd praised Thompson’s performance and his movement on the court, particularly in pick-and-pop plays. Thompson admitted he was nervous before his debut, likening it to the 2015 Finals Game 1.
The Mavericks lost 107-102 to the Utah Jazz, but fans were thrilled to see Thompson in action. They’ll look for their first preseason win against the Clippers on Monday.