"I don't own a time machine" – Klay Thompson rejects hindsight question as Mavericks miss 2024-25 playoffs

The Dallas Mavericks experienced their 2024–25 season finale by falling short 120–106 to Memphis Grizzlies during the Western Conference play-in round. The playoffs elimination following the loss to the Memphis Grizzlies sparked harsh evaluation of the team's moves especially the Luka Doncic trade and injured player acquisitions. During the difficult time Klay Thompson received a question from the media regarding his commitment to the Mavericks organization which the former Warriors star shrugged off immediately.

Klay Thompson stands firm amidst Mavericks' unstable seasonWhen asked if he would have signed with the Mavericks had he known the season would unfold as it did, Thompson responded, “Don't do this to me. Don't do that to me. Don't do that. That's kind of a ridiculous question because I don't own a time machine and I don't believe in going back or looking back."

Thompson stressed his future-oriented perspective, noting that getting caught up in past decisions wouldn’t have helped him deal with the obstacles he faced, like the significant injuries he experienced while with the Golden State Warriors.

Klay Thompson was asked if he would've made the same decision to join the Mavs last summer knowing what he knows now:

"Don't do this to me. Don't do that to me. Don't do that. That's kind of a ridiculous question because I don't own a time machine & I don't believe in going back…

— Mike Curtis (@MikeACurtis2) April 19, 2025

Crucial players on the Mavericks sustained serious injuries throughout their season. Kyrie Irving 's athletic career ended prematurely due to an ACL tear while the Mavericks gave up Luka Doncic to acquire Anthony Davis whose groin and back injuries prevented him from playing effectively. Davis reached 40 points in the final game yet his season-ending injury demonstrated how serious problems still persisted with his team. Thompson managed 18 points in the match while the Mavericks lost to Grizzlies who made it to the Western Conference playoffs as the No. 8 seed.

The choice to swap Doncic for Davis has faced a lot of backlash, particularly due to Davis's track record of injuries. Both fans and analysts have raised doubts about General Manager Nico Harrison's approach, with some even calling this trade one of the worst in NBA history.

Thompson is sticking with the Mavericks, despite a season that hasn't met expectations. He took a moment to highlight the team's determination and restated his confidence in what the franchise can achieve, mentioning, ”I still believe in this franchise. I'm here for two more seasons after this, so I'd love to help them return to glory that they were brought to in 2011."

Thompson's leadership and experience are seen as vital assets as the Mavericks aim to regroup and build a competitive team for the future.

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The 2024–25 season for the Mavericks highlights how injuries and controversial decisions can sidetrack a team's ambitions. Yet, with players like Klay Thompson leading the way with their dedication, there's still a chance for a turnaround. As they move forward, the focus will be on healing, planning strategically, and reviving the franchise's former success.