The Dallas Mavericks and Klay Thompson have reached an agreement on a contract buyout, marking the end of a two-year period that was overshadowed by the unexpected trade involving Luka Doncic.
Thompson is set to join the Miami Heat after clearing waivers, as per a reliable source familiar with the plans of the five-time All-Star. The individual, who disclosed this information to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity, stated that Thompson could finalize his move to the Heat as early as Sunday if he goes unclaimed by any other team.
The decision for the buyout follows the Mavericks’ failure to make the playoffs during Thompson’s tenure, which followed Doncic leading the team to the NBA Finals in 2024.
Initially acquired by the Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal with the Golden State Warriors, Thompson was expected to bolster the team’s lineup alongside Doncic and Kyrie Irving. However, the team’s aspirations were shattered after Doncic was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis, who had a history of injuries. Irving also suffered a significant knee injury shortly after, and subsequently, Davis was traded to the Washington Wizards the following season.
The trade involving Doncic had a detrimental impact on the Mavericks, although they managed to secure the top pick in the draft lottery shortly after. With that pick, they selected Cooper Flagg from Duke, who later went on to win the Rookie of the Year award, injecting new optimism into the franchise.
The arrival of Flagg led to Thompson assuming a bench role for the first time since his rookie year with the Warriors.
Thompson, a four-time NBA champion with the Warriors alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, spent the first 13 seasons of his career with Golden State, enduring setbacks due to knee and Achilles injuries.
During his two-year stint with the Mavericks, Thompson averaged 12.9 points and shot 39% from beyond the arc. Throughout his career, he holds averages of 19.6 points per game and a 41% three-point shooting percentage.
In January, Thompson surpassed Damian Lillard to claim the fourth spot on the all-time career three-pointers list with 2,899, trailing only Curry, James Harden, and Ray Allen.
Having missed the playoffs only twice during his time with the Warriors, Thompson matched that tally in his brief spell with the Mavericks.
Mavericks’ president of basketball operations, Masai Ujiri, expressed gratitude towards Thompson, acknowledging his contributions and accomplishments throughout his career.
In a separate development, DeMar DeRozan has agreed to a one-year contract with the Denver Nuggets, valued at the veteran minimum of $3.9 million US. DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, will be joining his fifth team in his 18th season as he continues his quest for an elusive NBA championship.