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 after clearing waivers, as per a confidential source familiar with the plans of the five-time All-Star. The source, who spoke on anonymity to The Associated Press on Friday, mentioned that Thompson could potentially sign with the Heat by Sunday if no other team claims him.
The decision for the buyout follows the Mavericks’ failure to make the playoffs during Thompson’s tenure, subsequent to Doncic guiding the team to the NBA Finals in 2024.
Thompson was acquired by the Mavericks in a sign-and-trade deal with the Golden State Warriors, aiming to bolster the team with his exceptional 3-point shooting alongside Doncic and Kyrie Irving. However, the promising trio’s prospects were shattered after Doncic was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis, and Irving suffered a season-ending ACL injury.
The Mavericks’ franchise took a hit post the Doncic trade but managed to turn things around by winning the draft lottery and selecting standout rookie Cooper Flagg from Duke. Flagg’s addition led to Thompson transitioning to a bench role for the first time since his rookie season.
Thompson’s buyout is part of a significant overhaul of the Mavericks’ roster, with only a handful of players remaining from two years ago. The team also underwent changes in its front office and coaching staff.
Thompson, a four-time NBA champion with the Warriors, spent 13 seasons in Golden State before joining the Mavericks. Despite his brief stint with Dallas, he maintained solid averages, showcasing his shooting prowess both inside and beyond the arc.
Recognized as one of the top 3-point shooters in NBA history, Thompson recently surpassed Damian Lillard on the career 3-pointers list. His departure from the Mavericks marks the end of an era for the team, with appreciation expressed by the Mavericks’ president of basketball operations, Masai Ujiri.
In other NBA news, DeMar DeRozan has agreed to a one-year deal with the Denver Nuggets, adding a seasoned backcourt presence to the team as they aim for a championship title. DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, brings a wealth of experience after stints with multiple teams throughout his career.