Mavericks already have a slept-on Klay Thompson replacement before trading him

Klay Thompson has been in constant trade rumors this offseason, and all signs point toward the veteran shooter being shipped off or bought out before the start of the season. It's a move that makes sense for both sides, as Dallas already has a replacement for Thompson's production on the roster that no one is talking about: Tarik Biberovic.

Earlier this month, the Mavericks signed Biberovic to a two-year deal. He will immediately help solve the team's shooting woes that plagued them last season.

The Turkish sharpshooter has a real chance to replicate the success he found beyond the arc with Fenerbahce here in Dallas, and his numbers are a testament to this. He was one of the top 3-point shooters in Europe over the past three seasons, as he shot 43.6 percent from three in the EuroLeague and BSL combined during this time span. So, assuming Biberovic continues his hot shooting as he enters the NBA, trading Thompson won't be an issue.

The 25-year-old wing will be ready to pick up where Thompson left off, hopefully serving as his replacement on a roster that needs as much shooting as possible around Cooper Flagg. He's not getting the credit he rightfully deserves after dominating in Europe, and NBA fans are going to learn his name quickly next season.

Thompson's days with the Mavericks seem numbered

The Mavericks have made it clear they are open to trading Klay Thompson. He doesn't fit the team's future outlook, as Dallas is centred on rebuilding a young roster around Flagg. Thompson is 36 years old. This means his time in the league is limited, and he should spend his last few years competing for a title.

This is why a trade is the most beneficial thing for both sides. The Mavericks have been patient, trying to find a suitor to take on Thompson's contract while also gaining something in return rather than buying him out.

The Mavs know there are plenty of suitors who could benefit from Thompson's presence. Eventually, the trade market should heat up as teams get desperate for shooting, and a buyout shouldn't be an option until it's necessary. The best option for now is to stay put.

It seems like Thompson will be moved eventually, as it's a matter of when, not if.

Dallas' shooting numbers speak for themselves

Last season, the Mavericks were one of the worst 3-point shooting teams in the league. They ranked in the bottom five in multiple categories, including 3-point percentage and 3-pointers attempted and made.

Dallas lacked a consistent 3-point threat who could come in and make an immediate difference. It's an issue that deeply impacted their offense, as Flagg struggled to do things on his own without enough strong shooting on the perimeter. It also highlighted the absence of Kyrie Irving, as the season before, they were much better from the outside.

This is why trading for Biberovic was important. The team needed someone who could come in and replicate the role that Thompson played. Their newest addition should be the perfect solution, and he has the potential to become one of the best shooters on the team in his rookie season.

Biberovic's shooting can elevate the Mavs' offense

The Mavericks acquired Biberovic in a six-team trade that gave Dallas his draft rights from the Memphis Grizzlies. The move allowed Dallas to sign him to a standard NBA contract. It's something they couldn't miss on, as the Turkish forward has all the intangibles to help elevate the Mavs' offense.

One thing fans have been raving about is his electric shooting from beyond the arc. He has a beautiful release, and Mavericks fans can't wait to see him take the court for the first time.

His best shooting performance came in the 2023-24 season in the BSL when he shot 56.9 percent from long range.

Last season, he averaged a career-high 12.3 points per game. His shooting numbers stayed strong despite a rise in volume, as Biberovic made 48.9 percent of his 3-point attempts. It should excite Mavs fans for the future.

Plus, fans can't overlook his ability to play off-ball and create his own shot. Biberovic knows how to position himself in a perfect spot that creates catch-and-shoot opportunities for himself. This is something that would've been helpful for Flagg, as he lacked someone he could dish the ball out to.

Biberovic is poised to be a huge solution to one of the Mavericks' biggest weaknesses from a season ago, and even if they trade Thompson, they'll be in good hands with their new shooter.

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