Klay Thompson Notches Historic Milestones Amid Resurgent Stretch for Mavericks

DALLAS, January 22, 2026 – Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson is in the midst of a vintage scoring surge, recently surpassing two major career milestones while fueling a wave of trade speculation as the NBA’s February 5 deadline approaches. The 35-year-old sharpshooter eclipsed 17,000 career points and moved into fourth place on the NBA’s all-time three-pointers list during a pair of dominant performances last week.
Recent On-Court Resurgence
Thompson, in his second season with Dallas, has found his rhythm after a slow start to the campaign. He delivered back-to-back standout games against the Utah Jazz on January 15 and 17. In a 144-122 victory, he poured in a season-high 26 points, sinking six three-pointers to pass Damian Lillard for fourth place on the career regular-season triples list. Two days later, in a 138-120 win, he scored 23 points, with a first-quarter turnaround jumper marking the 17,000th point of his illustrious career.
Over his last six games, Thompson has averaged 18.0 points and 4.7 three-pointers in just 23.7 minutes per contest, shooting 50% from beyond the arc in that seven-game stretch. For the season, he is averaging 12.0 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 22.1 minutes per game.
Key Facts & Career Statistics
| Milestone / Stat | Detail |
|---|---|
| Career Points | Surpassed 17,000 on Jan. 17, 2026 |
| All-Time 3-Point Rank | 4th place (passed Damian Lillard on Jan. 15, 2026) |
| 2025-26 Season Averages | 12.0 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 1.5 APG, 38.0% 3PT |
| Current Contract | 3 years, $50 million (signed in 2024). Earns $16.7M this season, $17.4M in 2026-27. |
| Career Accolades | 4x NBA Champion, 5x All-Star, 2x All-NBA |
Trade Deadline Speculation Intensifies
With the Mavericks (18-26) navigating a season hampered by injuries to key players like Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving, Thompson’s name has surfaced prominently in pre-deadline rumors. Multiple reports indicate the Mavericks are open to listening to offers for several veterans, including Thompson, as the franchise evaluates its long-term direction around rookie Cooper Flagg.
Speculative trade scenarios have frequently linked Thompson with a return to the Golden State Warriors, the team with which he won four championships. One proposed framework from Bleacher Report suggested a deal sending Thompson and center Daniel Gafford to Golden State in exchange for forward Jonathan Kuminga and Georges Niang. Other reports have suggested the Detroit Pistons as a potential suitor seeking shooting, and the Los Angeles Lakers as a preferred destination for Thompson if he were to be bought out.
Future Uncertainty and Legacy
The veteran’s future remains uncertain. ESPN reports note that Thompson, who joined Dallas to compete alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, would prefer to be on a contender. With Doncic now a Laker and Irving sidelined, that vision in Dallas has shifted. However, his recent improved play has led some analysts to suggest the Mavericks may be less inclined to move him unless presented with a compelling offer.
When asked about a potential reunion with the Warriors someday, Thompson has been noncommittal, but former teammate Stephen Curry told ESPN, “It would be unbelievable… If that time comes and that conversation is had, of course I’m calling him.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Klay Thompson playing tonight?
Yes, according to the latest injury reports, Thompson is expected to be available for the Mavericks’ next game. He has been managing minor left knee soreness on and off this season but has not missed significant time recently.
What team is Klay Thompson on?
Klay Thompson is currently a guard for the Dallas Mavericks. He signed with the team in the 2024 offseason after 11 seasons with the Golden State Warriors.
What is Klay Thompson’s contract situation?
Thompson is in the second year of a three-year, $50 million contract signed with Dallas. He is earning approximately $16.7 million this season and is owed about $17.4 million for the 2026-27 campaign.
