As the Dallas Mavericks prepare for their matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, questions remain about player availability. Following a 30-point loss to the Timberwolves, Dallas has struggled to find consistency this season and currently sits outside playoff contention after reaching the play-in last year.
The team appears to be entering a new era built around No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg, while also navigating a series of major roster changes, including trading Luka Doncic for Anthony Davis, then later flipping Davis for Marvin Bagley III and Khris Middleton. Injuries have played a significant role in the team’s uneven performance throughout the year.
According to Kevin Gray Jr. of DLLS Sports, Klay Thompson is considered doubtful for the Bucks game as the Mavericks look to give him additional rest.
With Thompson sidelined, along with several other key players, the Mavericks are expected to struggle on the boards and defensively. Dallas will likely lean on forward Flagg, guards Brandon Williams and Max Christie, and center Daniel Gafford to carry the load.
Now in his second season with the Mavericks, Thompson has shown a noticeable decline in production. Across 65 games, the 36-year-old is averaging 11.7 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists, while shooting 39.3% from the field and 38.6% from three-point range.
Those numbers fall short of his prime years with the Golden State Warriors, where the system better complemented his style of play. Thompson’s peak came during the 2015-16 season. Across 80 games, he averaged 22.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists, while shooting 47.0% from the field and 42.5% from beyond the arc.
Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson (31) walks up the court during the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center.
© Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Former Washington State standout and the No. 11 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, Thompson developed into one of the league’s premier guards during his time with the Golden State Warriors.
He won four NBA championships, earned five All-Star selections, two All-NBA honors, and was named to the 2018-19 All-Defensive Team, in addition to receiving All-Rookie honors early in his career. Known for his textbook shooting form, deep range, off-ball movement, and ability to defend top scorers, Thompson thrived in Golden State’s system.
However, he has yet to replicate that same level of success in Dallas. Thompson signed a fully guaranteed three-year, $50 million deal with the Mavericks in July 2024 via sign-and-trade, ending his 13-year run with the Warriors. The contract runs through the 2026-27 season, but given his recent play, his long-term future with the team remains uncertain.
Related: Mavericks Announce Klay Thompson Decision Before Cavaliers Game
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 31, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.