Klay Thompson’s Historic Night Powers Mavericks Past Jazz in Statement Win
DALLAS - Klay Thompson reminded everyone why his name belongs among the NBA’s all-time great shooters. In a night that blended vintage Thompson with a fresh chapter in Mavericks history, the veteran sharpshooter delivered his best performance of the season, helping Dallas torch the Utah Jazz 144-122 in a game that was as much about resilience as it was about records.
The Mavericks, playing without standout rookie Cooper Flagg (left ankle sprain), responded to a tough loss the night before with their most explosive offensive showing of the year. They poured in a season-high 144 points, knocked down 19 threes, and got contributions from just about everywhere on the roster. But it was Thompson who stole the spotlight.
Coming off the bench, Thompson dropped 26 points and matched his season high with six made threes. In doing so, he passed Damian Lillard for fourth on the NBA’s all-time three-point list - a milestone that adds another layer to an already storied career. Only Stephen Curry, James Harden, and Ray Allen remain ahead of him.
“Just my love for the game,” Thompson said afterward when asked what’s kept him going. “I love shooting the basketball. I was very lucky to grow up with a hoop in my driveway… it was always my source of joy and a form of escapism for me.”
That love was on full display Thursday night. Thompson’s rhythm was pure, his release as smooth as ever, and the Mavericks fed off his energy. Head coach Jason Kidd summed it up best: “Klay was the leader of the group… the energy that the guys played off of getting him the ball.”
Offensive Fireworks and Bench Depth
Dallas didn’t just win - they overwhelmed. The Mavericks hit at least 30 points in every quarter, including three 35-plus quarters, something they’ve only done once before this season.
It wasn’t just Thompson carrying the load either. Naji Marshall stayed hot with 22 points - his third straight 20-point outing - and the Mavs’ bench exploded for 65 points, another season high.
The Jazz, already reeling without Lauri Markkanen (illness), simply couldn’t keep up. Utah came in allowing the most points and threes per game in the league, and Dallas made sure those numbers stayed intact. The game was largely decided by halftime, with the Mavericks pushing the pace, moving the ball, and playing with a defensive edge that generated 13 steals.
Moussa Cissé Makes His Mark
One of the night’s most encouraging signs for Dallas was the emergence of Moussa Cissé. The big man posted his first career double-double with 10 points, 13 rebounds, and three blocks - a performance that showcased his potential as a rim protector and energy guy off the bench.
“It’s my preparation,” Cissé said. “I come here every day and work, be able to prepare myself mentally and physically to be ready at any time.”
That readiness was evident, and it gave the Mavericks a much-needed lift in the paint, especially with their frontcourt rotation thinned by injuries.
Franchise Milestones and Veteran Presence
Dwight Powell added a bit of history of his own, moving into the top 10 on Dallas’ all-time rebounding list. Jeremiah Robinson-Earl also made a strong season debut with 12 points and seven boards, giving Kidd another option to lean on moving forward.
For a team that’s been searching for consistency, this win felt like more than just one in the standings. It was a reminder that even with injuries and a sub-.500 record, there’s still plenty of fight - and firepower - in this group.
Kidd, reflecting on the night’s significance, said, “When you look at DP and what he means to this franchise… you look at what Klay has done in his career and for him to move up on the three-point list is incredible. So it's really cool to be a part of.”
Looking Ahead
At 16-26, the Mavericks still have plenty of ground to make up, but Thursday’s performance was the kind of all-hands-on-deck effort that can spark a turnaround. They’ll get another crack at the Jazz on Saturday, this time with momentum and confidence on their side.
For Thompson, the night was about more than just numbers. It was about legacy, love for the game, and proving that even after all he’s been through, he’s still got plenty left in the tank.
And for the Mavericks, it was a reminder that when their shooters get hot and their bench shows up, they can be a problem - even without a full deck.