Klay Thompson Says He Feels 'Rejuvenated' After Leaving Warriors for Mavs in NBA FA

Ahead of his first game at Chase Center as a visiting player, Klay Thompson is at peace with his decision to leave the Golden State Warriors and join the Dallas Mavericks during the offseason.

Speaking to ESPN's Tim MacMahon, Thompson believes the move to Dallas has "rejuvenated" him and his career.

"Honestly, it's rejuvenated me and done something I needed bad just for my mental and my career," Thompson said. "So, I really feel the love here, and I feel highly valued that I can do great things."

The end of Thompson's tenure in Golden State was defined primarily by the tension between the two sides.

ESPN's Ramona Shelburne and Kendra Andrews reported in July that Thompson "felt disrespected" because the Warriors didn't offer him an extension after they won the 2022 NBA Finals.

Those feelings only "deepened" when the Warriors didn't budge on their offer of a two-year contract worth between $23-24 million per season following the 2022-23 campaign.

Thompson joined the Mavs on a three-year, $50 million contract in the offseason. The deal was facilitated in a six-team sign-and-trade agreement.

While there may still be some hard feelings from Thompson, his 13-year run with the Warriors ensures his No. 11 jersey will be retired as soon as his playing career is over. He was a five-time All-Star and won four titles in Golden State.

The Warriors are going to hold a special ceremony before tipoff of Tuesday's game against the Mavericks to honor Thompson's accomplishments and legacy with the organization.

Thompson and the Mavericks are off to a slow start this season. He is averaging 13.8 points per game on 35.4 percent three-point shooting. Dallas has lost three of its last four games, dropping its record to 5-5.

Dallas and Golden State will tipoff from Chase Center on Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET in the first game of the NBA Cup for both teams.