Mavericks' cryptic starting lineup plan could hint at future heartbreaking trade

Earlier this month, the NBA released its schedule for the upcoming season. This means the Dallas Mavericks were no strangers to the release, as they jumped on the promotional opportunity. The team highlighted a promotional graphic with Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, Cooper Flagg, Dereck Lively II, and Klay Thompson.

So what could this mean? Could the team be hinting at its starting lineup? If so, then this could provide some answers for Mavs fans. It was expected that players such as Irving, Davis, Flagg, and Lively II would be the starting core when healthy. The fifth starter always seemed in question, but with Thompson in the picture, this could provide some closure.

This is good news for Thompson, as it has always been his desire to be a part of the Mavs' starting lineup. If you recall, Thompson signed with Dallas because he wanted a fresh start. He hadn't started for the entire season in the year prior for the Golden State Warriors, and his new role in Dallas is what he needed. So, his wish may come true for another season. However, down the line, Jason Kidd could change Thompson's status with the team, a move that may come with consequences.

Jason Kidd's potential lineup change could hurt Klay Thompson

Back in May, Kidd jumped on the DLLS Mavs podcast to discuss Cooper Flagg's role with the team. One thing he mentioned was shifting Flagg to the shooting guard position. This means Dallas would unleash an unstoppable tall lineup that includes Flagg, Irving, Davis, Lively II, and P.J. Washington.

This is good news for Washington, as it means Dallas is unlikely to trade him. Washington and Daniel Gafford had been players who Mavs fans thought could get traded this summer, but Kidd's plans possibly debunk those ideas. Plus, it also means Washington could see significant time in the starting lineup at some point, as he is expected to lose his starting role to Flagg.

Yet, this isn't good news for someone like Klay Thompson. As mentioned earlier, Thompson came to Dallas because he wanted a fresh start where he wasn't an afterthought. Dallas provided him that opportunity last season when he was the team's primary shooting guard. Thompson took advantage of the opportunity, as he became the team's primary catch-and-shoot guard.

So, if Thompson is moved to the bench, like Kidd suggested earlier, then it could spell trouble for Dallas. The main downside to moving Thompson is his possible reaction; in the past, he has expressed frustration and displeasure whenever his role is diminished. For example, during the 2023-24 season, Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr moved Thompson to the bench, something he wasn't pleased with.

It was reported that during the transition, Thompson expressed frustration and yelled at Kerr and some of his assistants. It was a dark time for the guard, as he wasn't used to being a sixth man. So, nothing says he might do the same in Dallas if he is moved to the bench.

If this happens, it's always possible he could want out of Dallas and request a trade. It would be another scenario like the one he had in Golden State.

So, Kidd and the Dallas Mavericks could be playing with fire if Thompson is demoted again. It's possible he could express displeasure with the move and demand a trade from Dallas. Plus, with Nico Harrison's history, anything is possible. Even though all signs are pointing to Thompson being a starter to begin next season, Mavs fans must hope Thompson is ready for any potential lineup movement this coming season.