The Dallas Mavericks and Klay Thompson have reached an agreement on a contract buyout, marking the end of a two-year period impacted by the unexpected trade of Luka Doncic. Thompson is set to join the Miami Heat after clearing waivers, as confirmed by a reliable source familiar with the plans of the five-time All-Star. The move could see Thompson officially signing with the Heat as early as Sunday if no other team claims him.
The decision for the buyout follows the Mavericks’ consecutive playoff misses during Thompson’s tenure, which followed Doncic guiding Dallas to the NBA Finals in 2024. Thompson came to Dallas in a sign-and-trade deal from Golden State, aiming to provide strong 3-point shooting alongside Doncic and Kyrie Irving. However, the trio’s potential was shattered after Doncic was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis in 2025, leading to Irving’s injury and subsequent absence from play.
Despite setbacks, the Mavericks managed to secure the top pick in the draft lottery, selecting standout rookie Cooper Flagg from Duke, who went on to win Rookie of the Year and rejuvenate the team. Flagg’s addition saw Thompson transitioning to a bench role for the first time since his rookie year with the Warriors.
Thompson’s buyout forms part of a significant overhaul of the Mavericks’ roster, with only five players remaining from the lineup two years ago. The team also underwent changes in its front office, with Masai Ujiri taking over as president of basketball operations, Mike Schmitz as general manager, and Dusty May replacing Jason Kidd as head coach.
Having won four NBA titles with the Warriors, Thompson spent his first 13 seasons with Golden State, though he faced injuries that sidelined him for two full seasons. During his time with the Mavericks, the five-time All-Star averaged 12.9 points and shot 39% from beyond the arc, with career averages of 19.6 points per game and 41% 3-point shooting.
Thompson made his mark on the NBA by surpassing Damian Lillard for fourth place on the all-time 3-point list in January, accumulating 2,899 3-pointers, trailing only Curry, Harden, and Allen. Despite missing the playoffs twice in 11 seasons with the Warriors, Thompson matched that record in his brief stint with Dallas.
Ujiri expressed gratitude for Thompson’s contributions to the Mavericks, acknowledging his status as a great player and competitor of his generation. The move signifies a new chapter for Thompson as he prepares to join the Miami Heat and continue his basketball journey.
