The Dallas Mavericks and Klay Thompson have reached an agreement on a contract buyout, marking the end of a two-year stint that was overshadowed by the unexpected 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 individual, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to The Associated Press, mentioned that Thompson could potentially finalize his move to the Heat by Sunday if no other team claims him.
The decision for the buyout follows the Mavericks’ failure to make the playoffs during Thompson’s tenure, following Doncic leading the team to the NBA Finals in 2024.
Having arrived at Dallas via a sign-and-trade with the Golden State Warriors, Thompson was expected to enhance the Mavericks’ lineup with his exceptional 3-point shooting alongside Doncic and Kyrie Irving. However, the trio’s prospects were dashed when Doncic was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis in 2025, and Irving sustained a season-ending ACL injury shortly after.
The repercussions of the Doncic trade were profound for the franchise, although Dallas remarkably secured the top pick in the subsequent draft lottery. The selection of standout rookie Cooper Flagg from Duke brought a glimmer of hope to the team, leading to Thompson assuming a bench role for the first time since his rookie season with the Warriors.
Thompson, a four-time NBA champion with the Warriors, spent 13 seasons with Golden State before his tenure with the Mavericks. Averaging 12.9 points and shooting 39% from beyond the arc during his time in Dallas, Thompson’s career statistics stand at 19.6 points per game and a 41% 3-point shooting percentage.
Regarded as one of his generation’s premier players and competitors, Thompson’s departure marks a significant shift in the Mavericks roster, with only five players remaining from two years ago alongside new front office personnel and coaching staff.
In a separate development, DeMar DeRozan has agreed to a one-year deal with the Denver Nuggets worth $3.9 million US, according to sources familiar with the agreement. This move positions DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, to pursue his first championship with his fifth team in 18 seasons, solidifying the Nuggets’ backcourt following a recent trade involving Peyton Watson.