The Dallas Mavericks announced Friday that they had reached a buyout agreement with Klay Thompson, opening the door for the veteran wing to join the free agent market. ESPN reported shortly thereafter that Thompson is anticipated to sign with the Miami Heat once he clears waivers, providing shooting support alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo.
Thompson, 36, spent two seasons with Dallas after signing in 2024, playing 141 games and averaging 12.9 points while shooting 40.3 percent from the field, 38.7 percent from three, and 85.1 percent from the free throw line. The Mavericks opted to pursue a buyout ahead of the upcoming season as the franchise shifted toward a youth-focused direction led by reigning Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg. Masai Ujiri, the Mavericks’ basketball operations president, released a statement expressing gratitude for Thompson’s contributions and wishing him success moving forward.
The Heat faced financial constraints while constructing a roster around their newly acquired stars but pursued additional veteran support after LeBron James opted to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers instead. Thompson’s addition addresses Miami’s perimeter shooting needs following the trade of Tyler Herro to Milwaukee and the free agent departure of Norman Powell. The four-time NBA champion will join a wing rotation that includes Andrew Wiggins, Nikola Jovic, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Dru Smith.
While Thompson’s efficiency has declined from his peak following recovery from ACL and Achilles injuries, he has maintained strong shooting production in recent seasons, converting 39.3 percent of his three-point attempts on 8.8 attempts per game over the past five seasons. Coach Erik Spoelstra gains another option for lineup construction as the Heat attempt to return to prominence in the Eastern Conference.
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