Klay Thompson‘s future with the Dallas Mavericks remains uncertain. While the Miami Heat appeared to position itself as the primary suitor in a race that also includes the Los Angeles Lakers, the veteran guard reportedly has a preferred destination in mind for his NBA future.
However, it is still unclear if Thompson, who has one year left on his deal with the Mavericks, is looking for a way out of Dallas, according to The Athletic’s Christian Clark. “At this point, it remains unclear if Klay Thompson, the Mavericks’ leading 3-point shooter in each of the past two seasons, will be back in Dallas for a third year,” Clark reported.
“The Mavericks have explored his trade market but have yet to find a deal, multiple sources with rival teams told The Athletic on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss any potential negotiations. Thompson is owed $17.5 million this season and is set to become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2027.”
Why Thompson favors Los Angeles
The report adds that a specific factor draws Thompson to Los Angeles: his past. He spent part of his childhood in the area and already owns a home there, which would make adapting to the city simple.
Klay Thompson of Dallas Mavericks.
“My understanding is that Thompson would welcome a return to Los Angeles, where he spent part of his childhood and still owns a home. The Miami Heat are another team frequently mentioned in NBA circles as a potential landing spot for the future Hall of Famer,” Clark concluded.
Thompson has $17.4 million left on the final year of his three-year deal with the Mavericks. His production has remained steady, with Thompson averaging 11.7 points on 39.3% shooting, including 38.3% from deep in the 2025-26 NBA season.
Mavericks in no rush for a buyout
The Mavericks are reportedly in no rush to part ways with veteran guard Klay Thompson. While the Heat has expressed interest in acquiring the five-time All-Star, the franchise would prefer making a trade rather than reaching a buyout agreement, according to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel.
“Dallas has no reason to want to buy him out and would prefer to find a trade for him. Klay would need to give up significant money in a buyout,” Siegel wrote on X.
