The 2024-25 Dallas Mavericks season opener was one of the most anticipated opening nights in recent memory considering how well the team performed last season, but the headliner of this event was the debut of Klay Thompson.

Thompson put together some up-and-down performances in his three preseason appearances for Dallas, and fans finally got to see what he looks like playing alongside Luka Doncic against the San Antonio Spurs.

Thompson started the game well when he made his first two shots, a mid-range jumper and a three from the corner, but his performance on the other end also caught the attention of many fans.

During the preseason, Thompson made it clear he wanted to prove he’s still a good defender, and it only took him a few minutes to prove that against San Antonio. He believes he is still the defender he was during his prime years in Golden State, and Thursday’s game against the Spurs was a good step in the right direction for him to reverse the narrative that his defense is significant deteriorated.

In the first five minutes of the game, Thompson forced Victor Wembanyama into two turnovers. His active hands in that area were immediately apparent, and he made his mark on this game early on defense. Jason Kidd had Thompson defend Chris Paul to start this match, and while Paul isn’t the same player he once was, Thompson still placed an emphasis on defending tight at the rim and not giving up anything easily.

Thompson’s lateral quickness is one of his biggest draws from analysts and fans alike when it comes to his defense, and he has proven that he can still move his feet when necessary. Brandon Williams even complimented Thompson’s lateral quickness during Media Day, and if Thompson can consistently defend like this, the Mavs will be in a great spot.

With Thompson being reported as the guaranteed starter during the offseason, numerous media outlets were immediately concerned, claiming that Naji Marshall should start instead. There was concern that Thompson’s defense wouldn’t be good enough to play in the starting five alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, and Thompson showed that wouldn’t be the case.

He showed that Kidd can be trusted to take on some tougher defensive assignments if needed, and that’s a big plus for Dallas. The Mavs want him to be average or better in that area, and Thursday night’s game showed concerns about his defense could disappear by the end of the year.

His shooting remains otherworldly, and as long as he can hold his own on defense and not become a liability, fans will jump for joy. Thompson generally seems to be in a good spot, and the Mavs would be happy if he can stay positive in that area.