Ranking 9 most important early-season national TV games on the 2024-25 NBA schedule

5. Klay Thompson's return to Golden State Dallas Mavericks @ Golden State Warriors - Tuesday, November 12

If the departure of Paul George was odd, the Klay Thompson move in free agency was that on steroids. At the start of last season, I'm not sure there was anyone willing to bet that Klay and the Golden State Warriors were heading toward a divorce. However, by the end of the season, it looked more and more like a foregone conclusion. And those instincts were clear by the time free agency rolled around. Ultimately, Klay would go on to sign with the Dallas Mavericks. In mid-November, the Mavs and Klay will make a trip to Golden State. It will mark the first time Klay plays against the Warriors on the road as an opponent.

Unlike the uncertainty that revolves around how the fans will react to PG, I'm sure the Warriors will perfectly handle Klay's return as they should. Even though their relationship ended a bit frosty, there can't be anything but respect between Klay and the Warriors.

Klay will get his moment as he returns, but once the ceremony is over, it will be interesting to see how he ends up playing as a visitor. These types of matchups are always fascinating.