Klay Thompson reveals legendary reason for changing jersey number on Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks held an introductory press conference Tuesday for their new acquisitions including Quentin Grimes, Naji Marshall, and Klay Thompson. The purpose was to highlight and spotlight the players and what each one brings to the table.

For starters, Grimes is a feisty defender who isn't afraid to guard elite players. Statistics showed that he is the top player called upon to defend high-caliber offensive stars. His contribution will be huge to the Mavs, as they struggled to slow down the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals.

Marshall on the other hand hopes to follow in Grime's footsteps. He too is a quick defender who can guard multiple positions. His game is a step up from Josh Green and he is expected to be the perfect replacement for Derrick Jones Jr. He excels at navigating screens and isn't afraid to pickpocket ball handlers.

Klay Thompson changes jersey number to honor Reggie Miller and Jason Terry

The biggest move though is the sign-and-trade for Klay Thompson. He is one of the top shooters of all time and should excel well between Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic. Thompson has converted 41.3 percent of his career attempted 3-point attempts. Last season, he converted 38.7 percent of his long-range attempts, in what many people consider his off-year.

He struggled heavily during the Golden State's Play-In game. He went 0-10 from the field and missed all six of his 3-point attempts.

However, Thompson isn't ready to call it quits. He has expressed excitement to play for Dallas and even stated "this gonna be so fun" when referring to the opportunity.

One reason for his optimism could be his number change. Thompson stated that this season he is wearing the No. 31, a big switch from the No. 11 he wore for his entire tenure in Golden State.

His number switch might be due in part to Irving. The Mavs guard currently has the number 11, Thompson's jersey number with the Warriors.

The number switch though goes way beyond that. Thompson stated that his reasoning was because of two former NBA shooters.

One player Thompson referenced was Mavs legend Jason Terry. He explained how Terry won a championship in that number and that he plans to do the same.

If he does plan to replicate Terry's success, he will need to continue shooting at a high level. This is something he hopes to do. Thompson explained that he mirrors his game after Reggie Miller, another player who inspired his number change.

"You can't leave me open like you did Reggie, that's was inspiration as well. I thought I'd have a chance to pass him in threes made, so that'd be a cool way to honor someone who really paved the way for a shooter like me."

- Klay Thompson

Thompson has the chance to pass Miller on the all-time 3-pointers made list this season, and him changing his number to 31 would be a good way to honor him as he passes him on this list.

So, if the jersey switch told us anything, its that Thompson is here to play. It's no wonder he was seen getting shots up after the press conference.

Thompson will be the perfect compliment for a Mavs team that was three wins away from winning it all. His experience and skills will mesh well with the newfound offense.

Now the question remains: Can he truly replicate Terry's success and bring home a title for Dallas?

For all the latest on Klay Thompson and the Dallas Mavericks this season, stay tuned.