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Klay Thompson Signs with Miami Heat After Mavericks Buyout

PUBLISHED Sep 1, 2026, 10:42 AM ET

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Veteran guard Klay Thompson has signed a two-year, $11.5 million contract with the Miami Heat following a contract buyout with the Dallas Mavericks. The agreement includes a player option for the second year. Thompson finalized the buyout on August 22, 2026, receiving $7.7 million over a staggered payment schedule while forfeiting approximately $9.8 million from his original $17.5 million salary for the 2026-27 season. After clearing waivers, he chose Miami to join a newly constructed roster featuring Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo. Last season with Dallas, Thompson appeared in 69 games, averaging 11.7 points while shooting 38.3 percent from three-point range and setting a franchise reserve record with 202 made three-pointers. A four-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, Thompson enters the upcoming season with 2,899 career three-pointers, placing him fourth all-time and trailing Ray Allen by 74 makes for second place.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On July 6, 2024, Klay Thompson joined the Dallas Mavericks via sign and trade.
On June 23, 2026, Miami Heat acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo from Milwaukee Bucks.
On August 22, 2026, Dallas Mavericks officially announced Klay Thompson buyout agreement.
On August 24, 2026, Klay Thompson signed with Miami Heat officially.
On September 1, 2026, Klay Thompson prepares for upcoming NBA season opener.
On October 24, 2026, Klay Thompson will debut for Miami Heat games.
On December 15, 2026, Klay Thompson becomes eligible for trade under rules.
On April 11, 2027, Regular season concludes for Klay Thompson in Miami.
On June 20, 2027, Klay Thompson could win fifth championship ring.
On June 30, 2027, Klay Thompson evaluates player option for next season.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Miami Heat championship odds improve significantly following veteran shooter acquisition.
Possible long-term US impact: Eastern Conference power balance shifts toward Miami with elite roster construction.
Most affected groups: Miami Heat fans, basketball analysts, and opposing Eastern Conference teams.
Reader priority: Monitor official team announcements and verified sports journalism reporting networks.

Explain Framing

Left: Veteran embraces fresh opportunity pursuing championship glory in South Florida. Center: Team acquires veteran shooter to complement star player roster additions. Right: Financial buyout reflects market adjustments for aging NBA superstar players.