The Dallas Mavericks have reached an agreement on a contract buyout with Klay Thompson, bringing an end to his two-year stint with the team, which was overshadowed by the surprising trade of Luka Doncic.
Thompson is set to join the Miami Heat after clearing waivers, 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 officially sign with the Heat as early as Sunday if not claimed by another team.
The decision for the buyout comes in the aftermath of the Mavericks missing the playoffs during Thompson’s tenure, following Doncic leading the team to the NBA Finals in 2024. Thompson had joined the Mavericks in a sign-and-trade from the Golden State Warriors, adding one of the greatest 3-point shooters to the roster alongside Doncic and Kyrie Irving.
However, the promising trio’s aspirations fell apart after the Mavericks traded Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis in 2025, who had a history of injuries. Irving suffered a season-ending ACL injury shortly after, and Davis was eventually traded to the Washington Wizards.
The Doncic trade had a significant impact on the franchise, but the Mavericks managed to win the draft lottery and selected rookie standout Cooper Flagg with the first overall pick, providing a fresh spark to the team. Flagg’s arrival led to Thompson coming off the bench for most games, a departure from his usual starting role.
Thompson’s buyout is part of a larger restructuring of the Mavericks’ roster, with only five players remaining from two years ago. The team also underwent changes in the front office, welcoming president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri and general manager Mike Schmitz, along with new head coach Dusty May succeeding Jason Kidd.
Thompson, a four-time NBA champion with the Warriors, spent 13 seasons with Golden State before his brief stint with the Mavericks. Known for his sharpshooting, Thompson averaged 12.9 points with a 39% 3-point shooting percentage during his time in Dallas, while boasting career averages of 19.6 points per game and a 41% success rate from beyond the arc.
In January, Thompson surpassed Damian Lillard to claim the fourth spot on the all-time 3-point list, with 2,899 made 3-pointers, trailing only Curry, Harden, and Allen. Despite missing the playoffs twice with Dallas, Thompson had a successful postseason track record with the Warriors, making it only twice in his 11 seasons with Golden State.
Ujiri expressed gratitude for Thompson’s contributions to the Mavericks, acknowledging his talent and competitiveness throughout his career. The departure of Thompson marks a significant shift in the Mavericks’ lineup as they continue to reshape their roster for the future.
In a related development, DeMar DeRozan has agreed to a one-year contract with the Denver Nuggets, valued at the veteran minimum of $3.9 million. This move adds a seasoned presence to the Nuggets’ backcourt, with DeRozan seeking his first championship in his 18th season as a six-time All-Star.