The Dallas Mavericks and Klay Thompson have reached an agreement on a contract buyout, concluding a two-year period marked by the unexpected trade of Luka Doncic. Thompson is set to join the Miami Heat following the completion of the waiver process. This information comes from a reliable source familiar with the plans of the five-time All-Star. The move to Miami could be finalized as early as Sunday if no other team claims Thompson.
The decision for the buyout follows two playoff absences during Thompson’s time with the Mavericks, subsequent to Doncic leading the team to the NBA Finals in 2024. Thompson’s arrival in Dallas, through a sign-and-trade with the Golden State Warriors, was anticipated to enhance the team’s performance with his exceptional 3-point shooting skills alongside Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Unfortunately, the trio’s potential was shattered after Doncic was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis in 2025. Irving’s injury and Davis’ subsequent trade further derailed the team’s trajectory.
Despite the setback caused by the Doncic trade, the Mavericks managed to secure the top pick in the draft and selected promising rookie Cooper Flagg from Duke, who later earned the Rookie of the Year title. Flagg’s addition led to Thompson transitioning to a bench role, a departure from his usual starting status.
Thompson’s buyout signifies a significant overhaul of the Mavericks’ roster, with only five players remaining from two years ago. The team has also undergone changes in its front office leadership and coaching staff. Thompson, a four-time NBA champion with the Warriors, spent the majority of his career in Golden State before joining the Mavericks.
Throughout his tenure with the Mavericks, Thompson maintained solid performance statistics, averaging 12.9 points and shooting 39% from the 3-point range. He holds a career average of 19.6 points per game and a 41% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc. Thompson’s exceptional 3-point shooting prowess was highlighted by surpassing Damian Lillard on the all-time 3-point list earlier this year.
Expressing gratitude for Thompson’s contributions, Mavericks’ president of basketball operations, Masai Ujiri, commended the player’s legacy and competitive spirit. The departure of Thompson from the Mavericks marks a significant transition for the team, signaling a new chapter in their roster composition.
In a separate development, veteran player 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 bring his wealth of experience to the Nuggets as they aim to bolster their backcourt strength. His addition follows a series of moves in the NBA offseason as teams gear up for the upcoming season.