Klay Thompson sends a message to the Warriors and Mavericks with superb shooting
Few players in basketball can get a shot off as quickly or efficiently as him
If there was any doubt that Klay Thompson can still fill up a basket, his latest offseason workout should put those concerns to rest. The four-time NBA champion recently showcased his trademark shooting stroke during a workout with player development and analytics expert Justin Zormelo.
What caught the attention of basketball fans was not just Thompson's smooth mechanics or lightning-fast release, it was the fact that he seemingly didn't miss. Shot after shot splashed through the net as Thompson demonstrated the same elite shooting ability that made him one of the most feared perimeter scorers of his generation.
The workout served as a reminder that even at this stage of his career, few players in basketball can get a shot off as quickly or efficiently as the former Golden State Warriors star. For teams that decided not to keep him, the footage may have been difficult to ignore.
Thompson can define games with his shooting
After reportedly agreeing to part ways with the Dallas Mavericks, Thompson appears set to begin a new chapter of his career. Reports have indicated that the veteran guard is expected to sign a two-year contract worth approximately $13 million with the Miami Heat, including a player option for the second season.
If Thompson carries his offseason form into meaningful games, both Dallas and Golden State could find themselves wondering whether they should have made a stronger effort to retain one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. The Warriors know better than anyone what Thompson can do when he gets hot.
During his remarkable run in Golden State, Thompson helped transform the franchise into a dynasty alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. He won four NBA championships , made five All-Star teams , and authored some of the most memorable shooting performances the league has ever seen. His 37-point quarter against Sacramento and his 14 three-pointers in a game against Chicago remain legendary achievements.
His gravity creates opportunities for everyone else
While age and injuries have naturally changed parts of his game, Thompson's shooting touch has never disappeared. That is why the latest workout generated so much attention. The quick release remains intact. The confidence remains intact. Most importantly, the ball continues to find the bottom of the net with remarkable consistency.
Dallas originally brought Thompson in to provide floor spacing around its stars and add championship experience to the locker room. Even when his scoring numbers fluctuated, opposing defenses still had to respect him every time he crossed half court. That gravity creates opportunities for everyone else on the floor.
Now, if Thompson lands in Miami and rediscovers the rhythm that made him one of basketball's premier shooters, the Heat could end up with one of the offseason's biggest bargains. A two-year deal worth around $13 million would represent relatively low financial risk for a player who still possesses an elite NBA skill.
Shooting remains the most valuable commodity in today's game, and Thompson has built an entire Hall of Fame-caliber career on his ability to stretch defenses beyond their breaking point.
