Klay Thompson's biggest critique turns into overwhelming strength for Mavs

On Thursday night, the Dallas Mavericks wrapped up their second of four scheduled preseason games. While many fans may not jump out of their seats to watch a preseason matchup, this was Klay Thompson's first action in a Mavericks uniform.

In addition to Thompson making his Mavericks debut, fans witnessed Kyrie Irving return to the hardwood after a one-game absence due to rest.

With the Mavericks playing a young Utah squad that features former All-Star center Lauri Markkanen, many fans expected the Mavs to get off to a running start with Thompson and Irving making their season debuts. Unfortunately, the team would struggle mightily to find their identity on the offensive end of the floor, which would spoil the two future Hall-of-Famers' returns.

Despite losing 107-102 to the Utah Jazz, the Mavericks still had plenty of takeaways from Thursday night's game.

Klay Thompson's defense is better than anyone could have expected

Since the moment Thompson signed with Dallas in early July, NBA media figures criticized the Mavericks for the lack of defense within the starting unit. This criticism wasn't just focused on the Mavericks' lack of defense but also highlighted how an aging star like Thompson couldn't have the same defensive impact as he once did in Golden State.

Not only did the four-time champion ball out on both ends of the floor but he proved many doubters wrong with a nearly perfect defensive game.

Despite only playing the first half, Thompson impressed many fans with his ability to defend beyond the 3-point line and also make it difficult for entry passes to be made on him in the paint. Thompson was constantly swiping at passes and balls, which only made it more difficult for Jazz players to get in an offensive rhythm.

On one possession, Thompson got switched onto Markkanen and made the seven-footer look silly by batting his dribble penetration attempt out of bounds. This defensive effort not only negated the mismatch that Markkanen was attempting to attack but it allowed Dallas to reset their defensive matchups on the court.

Thompson only managed to clock 18 minutes in his first action as a Mav, but he didn't disappoint in what little time he got. Despite all of the disapproval from the media and fans this offseason, teammates of Thompson understood the defensive impact he would have on the floor.

It's still unclear if the 34-year-old can sustain this level of defense for 30 minutes a night, but it's refreshing for fans to know what Thompson's potential can be on the Mavericks. Thompson had a dominant debut on both ends of the floor, and he is dedicated to being an elite defender for the Mavs.

Assuming Thompson can avoid serious injuries in Dallas, the Mavericks may not have to worry about what their starting unit's defense will look like on opening night.