Klay Thompson’s two-year tenure with the Dallas Mavericks has officially concluded following a team buyout, with the expected to sign a two-year, $13 million deal with the Miami Heat after clearing waivers, according to reports by ESPN. The move places one of the league’s most prolific 3-point shooters onto an Eastern Conference contender that acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo in June.
Mavericks Finalize Buyout After Two Seasons in Dallas
The Dallas Mavericks announced Friday that the team and Klay Thompson agreed to a buyout agreement, ending a stint that began when the arrived via a sign-and-trade ahead of the 2024-25 campaign. Thompson had one year remaining on the three-year, $50 million contract he signed in 2024.
During his time in Dallas, Thompson’s role and production shifted significantly from his years with the Golden State Warriors, where he won four titles alongside Stephen Curry. Last season, Thompson averaged 11.7 points per game while shooting 38.3% from beyond the arc, starting just eight games as a reserve. That production contrasted sharply with his 2022-23 campaign in San Francisco, where he averaged 21.9 points per game and shot 41.2% from 3-point range.
Miami Bound: Joining Antetokounmpo and Adebayo
Upon clearing waivers, Thompson is expected to sign a two-year, $13 million contract with the Miami Heat, according to ESPN. The assignment provides Miami with additional veteran floor spacing alongside a revamped roster.
The Heat reshaped their lineup in June by landing Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks in a blockbuster trade that sent three first-round picks, a pick swap, a second-rounder, Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Kasparas Jakucionis to Milwaukee. NBA insider Marc Stein reported in July that Miami front-office personnel targeted Thompson to pair alongside Antetokounmpo and center Bam Adebayo.
For Miami, adding a perimeter threat of Thompson’s caliber addresses a primary offensive need as the franchise positions itself as a top challenger in the Eastern Conference, competing directly against the defending champion New York Knicks.
Climbing the All-Time 3-Point Ranks
Despite averaging career-low numbers last season, Thompson remains historically elite from long distance. He ranks fourth in NBA history in career 3-pointers made, having passed Damian Lillard during a game in January. Thompson enters the upcoming season sitting just 74 3-pointers behind Ray Allen for the third spot on the NBA’s all-time list.
The transition to Miami offers Thompson an opportunity to secure a substantial rotation role on a contending roster while continuing his climb up the league’s shooting leaderboards.
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