“Shaquille O'Neal Goes Bold With Klay Thompson, Mavericks Prediction”

The Dallas Mavericks finally reached the highlight of their regular season as they defeated the San Antonio Spurs in a 120-109 battle. It wasn't perfect and it certainly looked like the first game of the season, but Dallas showed its potential with the win.

A season removed from their loss to the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals, the Mavericks have a new roster with four-time NBA champion and sharpshooter Klay Thompson.

On Thursday night, Thompson made his highly publicized debut for Dallas, scoring 22 points and adding seven rebounds and three steals. He converted six of his ten three-point shots.

READ MORE: 3 takeaways from the Mavericks' season-opening win over the Spurs

A team's first game is sure to bring a lot of overreactions and predictions for the season. For entertainment, the Inside the NBA panel made their predictions after the Mavericks beat the Spurs.

Shaquille O'Neal in particular rated the team's season with flying colors. It started with the assumption that the team could reach a championship if Thompson could average 20 points per game, but that turned into a clear prediction.

“I said Dallas needs a third scorer. “If Klay Thompson can score 20 points a game, they will win a championship,” O’Neal said. “…You know what, I believe in Klay. Klay will have a 20 average and the Mavs will win a championship.”

After the Celtics defeated the Mavericks in five games, it was obvious that Dallas lacked a viable third option and sufficient floor spacing around their core duo. Thompson provides relief on both counts.

Even though they are just 1-0 this season, the Mavericks appear to be in a better position with their new roster, and they honestly have no ceiling on what they can accomplish this season. Thompson left the Golden State Warriors for a change of scenery while competing for another title – and it looks like he accomplished such a thing.

READ MORE: Klay Thompson makes history in Mavericks debut

Stick with it Mavericks game day for more coverage of the Dallas Mavericks during the NBA offseason.

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