Klay Thompson's Mavericks success now depends on an uncomfortable truth

The Dallas Mavericks snapped their three-game losing streak on Sunday when they defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 138-133. A key part of their success and turnaround was their 3-point shooting. Before Sunday's game, the Mavs were struggling to shoot the ball from long distance, as they rank at the bottom of the league in terms of 3-point percentage (29th in the NBA, 31.1 percent from 3-point range). However, Klay Thompson helped the team change that narrative in a much-needed win on Sunday and in many of his recent performances.

Thompson played a key role in Sunday's win. He came off the bench and played 26 minutes, contributing 19 points. Thompson shot 45.4 percent from the 3-point line in the win (5-11 shooting), as he had been struggling to replicate his past success earlier in the season. If you recall, Thompson is one of the top 3-point shooters in NBA history. His recent production, though, had fans questioning if he still has that killer instinct.

Yet, one possible alternative to his struggles that seems to be working could be his new role off the bench. Remember, Thompson came to Dallas last season, looking for a fresh start after being benched in Golden State and feeling disrespected. This meant he wanted to go somewhere his production was valued, meaning he would be in a starting lineup. Dallas promised him a starting spot last summer, and while coming off the bench might not be his situation of choice, it could work out for both sides in the long run.

Klay Thompson's new role could be Dallas' secret spark

Recently, coach Jason Kidd was pressured into switching the team's starting lineup. Thompson's slump forced Kidd to reverse his role and move Max Christie into the team's starting shooting guard spot. It's a move Dallas desperately needed to make, as Thompson was averaging 8.1 points per game and shooting 26.2 percent from the 3-point line while in the starting lineup.

It was a gutsy move, but one that has seemed to work out for both sides. Dallas has seen an offensive spark from Thompson over the past three games, as he has seemed to turn things around and get back on track at the perfect time.

For example, last Wednesday against the Phoenix Suns, Thompson scored 19 points in his fourth straight game off the bench. Not to mention he knocked in a season-high six 3-pointers. It was a game both Dallas and Thompson needed, as he had combined for six points over the two games prior.

Fast forward to now, and it's obvious Kidd's recent adjustment may be working. Thompson scored 13 points and shot 40 percent from the 3-point line on Friday. Over the past three games, including Sunday, Thompson has drastically improved his outside shooting.

Basically, Thompson's improved shooting has opened up the Mavs' offense in so many ways. Against the Blazers, he shot the ball really well, forcing Portland to double-team Thompson at times. This then allowed the Mavs' big men to get more opportunities inside, as the opposition became more focused on stopping Thompson.

So, again, it's obvious Kidd's recent change is working. Thompson's offensive production and shooting have taken the team's offense to new heights, despite the wins not stacking up as much as expected. Plus, it's a role the former starter is embracing, as he is happy to be playing in the league.

With Thompson moving to the bench, it seems the team has now found a solution to the season's former kryptonite with multiple shooters, including Thompson, finally capitalizing on their open looks. Hopefully, Thompson can continue shooting at a consistent rate and give the team an offensive spark off the bench. Only time will tell if the move continues to work in their favor.