Klay Thompson, a four-time NBA champion, is reportedly set to join the Miami Heat for the 2026-27 NBA season following a contract buyout with the Dallas Mavericks. The veteran guard cleared waivers and is expected to sign a two-year deal worth close to $13 million, according to ESPN.
Thompson, 36, was in the final season of his contract with the Mavericks, scheduled to make $17.5 million before the agreement to part ways. The Mavericks confirmed the roster move on Friday. This move comes after Thompson spent 13 seasons with the Golden State Warriors before joining Dallas via a sign-and-trade deal following the 2023-24 season.
During his two seasons with the Mavericks, Thompson averaged 12.9 points in 141 regular-season games. He has long been recognized as one of the league's top 3-point shooters. His arrival in Miami is expected to bolster the Heat's perimeter offense, complementing new additions like Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was traded to the team in June.
Mavs president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri expressed gratitude for Thompson's contributions. "Klay is one of the great players and competitors of his generation, and we are grateful for everything he brought to the Mavericks organization," Ujiri stated. "We have tremendous respect for Klay and all that he has accomplished throughout his career, and we wish him nothing but the best moving forward."
Thompson's career has also seen him overcome significant injuries, including missing two full seasons earlier in his career while recovering from an Achilles tendon tear.
The Mavericks concluded the 2025-26 season with a 26-56 record. Head coach Jason Kidd departed after five seasons, and the team mutually agreed to part ways. Dallas hired Dusty May as their new coach in June, following his success in leading Michigan to the NCAA Division I men's national championship in April.