The agreement on a contract buyout between the Dallas Mavericks and Klay Thompson marks the end of a two-year period overshadowed by the unexpected trade of Luka Doncic.
Thompson is set to join the Miami Heat after the completion of the waiver process, as per a source familiar with the plans of the five-time All-Star. The source, speaking on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press, mentioned that Thompson could potentially finalize his move to the Heat as early as Sunday if no other team claims him.
The decision for the buyout follows the Mavericks’ failure to make the playoffs during Thompson’s tenure, which followed Doncic’s leadership in guiding Dallas to the NBA Finals in 2024.
Initially acquired by the Mavericks in a sign-and-trade with the Golden State Warriors, Thompson was intended to bolster the team alongside Doncic and Kyrie Irving. However, their aspirations were shattered when Doncic was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis in a trade before the 2025 trade deadline. Subsequently, Irving suffered a significant knee injury, while Davis was later traded to the Washington Wizards.
The trade involving Doncic had a profound impact on the Mavericks, although they rebounded by winning the draft lottery and selecting standout rookie Cooper Flagg from Duke with the No. 1 overall pick. Flagg’s addition led to Thompson assuming a bench role for the first time since his rookie season with the Warriors.
Thompson, known for his success with the Warriors, winning four NBA titles alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, spent 13 seasons with Golden State despite missing seasons due to injuries. His tenure with the Mavericks saw him average 12.9 points and shoot 39% from beyond the arc, with career averages of 19.6 points per game and 41% 3-point shooting.
In January, Thompson surpassed Damian Lillard to claim fourth place on the all-time 3-point list, with 2,899 made 3-pointers. Despite his individual successes, Thompson experienced playoff absences during his time with the Mavericks, in contrast to his consistent postseason appearances with the Warriors.
Mavericks’ President of Basketball Operations Masai Ujiri expressed gratitude for Thompson’s contributions, acknowledging his talent and competitiveness throughout his career.
In a separate development, DeMar DeRozan has reportedly agreed to a one-year contract worth $3.9 million US with the Denver Nuggets, adding a veteran presence to the team’s backcourt. DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, is set to join his fifth team in his 18th season as he pursues his first NBA championship.