Klay Thompson reached a buyout agreement with the Dallas Mavericks, with all indications pointing toward his arrival in Miami to join the Heat and form a formidable lineup. However, newly reported details highlight the financial sacrifice Thompson made to secure his departure from the squad.
While the exact buyout figure was initially uncertain, Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reported the financial specifics of the agreement. “Klay Thompson gave back roughly $9.8 million in his buyout agreement with the Dallas Mavericks, league sources told HoopsHype. As widely reported, Thompson now plans to join the Miami Heat once he clears waivers,” Scotto posted on X.
Thompson entered the final year of his contract with the Mavericks, set to earn $17.5 million. He is expected to sign a two-year, $13 million deal with the Miami Heat, where he will team up with Giannis Antetokounmpo, making a return to the Golden State Warriors impossible.
Thompson’s production With Mavericks
Thompson was a reliable shooter for the Mavericks during his two seasons with the squad, averaging 12.9 points while shooting 38.7% from three-point range. The veteran is expected to fully capitalize on the floor spacing created by Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo in Miami.
Klay Thompson of Dallas Mavericks.
Organizational turnover prompting departure
Major organizational shifts followed Thompson‘s arrival in Dallas. Luka Doncic was traded in exchange for Anthony Davis, who was subsequently traded to the Washington Wizards.
Nico Harrison was dismissed, leading the Mavericks to hire Mike Schmitz as general manager and Masai Ujiri as team president. Beyond seeking an opportunity with a title contender, Thompson likely sought a more stable environment given the roster and front-office movement.
Head coach Jason Kidd was also dismissed following the NBA season, with Dusty May taking over as head coach. The franchise’s desire to move on from Thompson aligns with its goal to get younger and rebuild around Cooper Flagg.
