Klay Thompson to Sign 2-Year Deal With Miami Heat After Mavericks Buyout

Klay Thompson plans to sign a two-year, nearly $13 million contract with the Miami Heat after clearing waivers following his buyout from the Dallas Mavericks, according to reports from ESPN on Friday, Aug. 21, 2026. The deal includes a player option for the second season.

Mavs Buyout Initiates Free Agency Move

Thompson initiated his departure from Dallas by informing the front office that he wanted to play for a contender, according to league sources. The Mavericks finished the previous season with a 26-56 record. Dallas officially announced the buyout on Friday afternoon, releasing the veteran guard from the final season of a contract that was set to pay him $17.5 million.

Fit With Miami’s Roster and Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Miami Heat made Thompson their primary target on the open market after completing a blockbuster trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo, according to ESPN. Thompson addresses the team’s need for perimeter shooting alongside Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo as Miami constructs a contender.

Career Statistics and Franchise History

Thompson, 36, spent the first 13 seasons of his career with the Golden State Warriors before arriving in Dallas via a sign-and-trade deal. During his two seasons with the Mavericks, he averaged 12.9 points per game while shooting 38.7% from 3-point range. Last season, Thompson surpassed Damian Lillard to move into fourth place for career 3-pointers made, bringing his career total to 2,899.

Front Office Reaction in Dallas

Mavericks president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri addressed the transaction in an official statement released by the franchise. “Klay is one of the great players and competitors of his generation, and we are grateful for everything he brought to the Mavericks organization,” Ujiri said. “We have tremendous respect for Klay and all that he has accomplished throughout his career, and we wish him nothing but the best moving forward.”