Klay Thompson bristled because the notion that he can’t guard at a excessive degree anymore and is raring to show skeptics incorrect, he instructed Eddie Sefko of Mavs.com.
“I nonetheless need to eliminate that notion that I’m not the identical defender I as soon as was,” Thompson stated. “I actually consider I’m. I’m excited to show folks incorrect, that I can nonetheless guard the elite gamers on this league.”
The truth that he’s joined a Mavericks group with two stars in Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic provides to that motivation.
“That’s a giant motive why I got here right here, these two guys,” Thompson stated. “(I’ve) massive desires and aspirations with this group. They have been so shut final 12 months (reaching the NBA Finals) and I actually really feel we’ve got all the things we’d like.”
We’ve got extra on the Texas groups:
- Reserve guard Jaden Hardy is intent on establishing himself as a rugged defender, he instructed Grant Afseth of Sportskeeda.com. “Proper now, I’m centered on defending the three higher, selecting up full court docket, and difficult guys whereas they convey the ball up,” he stated. “I’m additionally engaged on being in the proper spots on protection, speaking, and bringing vitality.” Hardy shall be a restricted free agent subsequent summer time.
- Spurs massive man Zach Collins made his preseason debut on Saturday after recovering from proper shoulder surgical procedure. He contributed 11 factors in a win over Utah. “Contemplating (the layoff), I believed he seemed actually good,” coach Gregg Popovich stated, per Jeff McDonald of the San Antonio Specific Information. “He boarded. He banged with folks. He wasn’t afraid of the shoulder or something like that.”
- In the identical preseason sport, Keldon Johnson excelled because the Spurs’ sixth man, pouring in 20 factors. Johnson shed 10 kilos in the course of the offseason and believes that has made a distinction in his efficiency degree, he instructed McDonald. “I really feel quick, I really feel sturdy,” Johnson stated. “Greatest I felt in a very long time.”
