Klay benched, Mavericks exploring potential returns from trading Thompson

In the first eight games, Thompson averaged only 8.5 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game, playing 20.4 minutes. The most worrying thing is that his 34% field goal percentage and 29% three-point shooting percentage hit career lows. For this historical shooter, such data is almost embarrassing.

Before the Mavericks' last game, head coach Jason Kidd moved Thompson to the bench in an attempt to change the team's situation and activate their offensive firepower. Although Thompson may not be satisfied with this decision, he made it clear that he will not be conflicted by it and firmly believes that he can regain his peak form after a slow start.

"I don’t mind playing as a substitute, " Thompson said, "I can still play and contribute, and I will definitely perform wonderfully. This is coming, I have no doubt. My friend, I am very happy to be standing here, the fifteenth season? I have witnessed the peak glory, and I have no doubts. It's precious to have gone through the trough and abyss - to last in this league for fifteen years is simply unbelievable! "

Although Thompson is grateful and confident about the future, the Mavericks management has already made moves. The Dallas Mavericks are off to a 2-6 start to the season, leading many around the league to speculate on whether Nico Harrison and the Mavericks will be option sellers before February's trade deadline if they continue to struggle. Although the Mavericks rank in the top five in defensive efficiency, their offensive efficiency ranks 30th in the league this season. Defense wins championships, but you can't win a game if you can't score.

Sources said that it is no secret that Harrison and the Mavericks management will explore what Klay Thompson can get in return before the trade deadline. Meanwhile, several teams are monitoring the Daniel Gafford situation. The 27-year-old center just signed a three-year, $60 million contract extension this offseason, but he is still eligible to be traded this season.

Currently, the Mavericks are not in panic mode and do not appear to be planning to sell off assets at all costs, but they are being watched closely. Coincidentally, one of the teams that has had strong interest in Gafford since last season is the Los Angeles Lakers, sources said. Will we see Luka Doncic and Gafford reunite in Los Angeles in February?