Klay Thompson Joins Heat After Mavericks Buyout

The Dallas Mavericks and Klay Thompson agreed to a contract buyout Friday, ending his two-season tenure with Dallas and making the veteran guard an unrestricted free agent. Thompson is expected to join the Miami Heat after clearing waivers, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania and other reports. The Mavericks confirmed the buyout but did not announce his next team. Thompson had $17.5 million remaining on the final year of his three-year, $50 million contract signed in 2024. ESPN reported he plans to sign a two-year deal worth nearly $13 million with Miami, including a player option for the second season. The 36-year-old five-time All-Star averaged 11.7 points and shot 38.3% from three-point range last season. Miami recently acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo and also has Bam Adebayo and Andrew Wiggins. Thompson’s move would add perimeter shooting and championship experience as Miami prepares for the 2026-27 season. The signing was subject to waiver procedures.