The Dallas Mavericks and Klay Thompson have reached an agreement on a contract buyout, concluding a two-year period marked by the surprising trade of Luka Doncic.
Thompson is set to join the Miami Heat once he completes the waiver process, according to a reliable source familiar with the plans of the five-time All-Star. The source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to The Associated Press on Friday, disclosed that Thompson’s intention is pending any potential claims by other teams, with a possible signing with the Heat as early as Sunday.
The decision for the buyout follows the Mavericks’ failure to make the playoffs in the last two seasons, a stark contrast to their previous success when Doncic led them to the NBA Finals in 2024.
Upon joining Dallas through a sign-and-trade with the Golden State Warriors, Thompson was expected to bolster the team alongside Doncic and Kyrie Irving. However, these aspirations were dashed after the Mavericks traded Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis in 2025, leading to a series of setbacks including Irving’s injury and subsequent trades involving Davis.
The franchise’s fortunes took a turn after the Doncic trade but saw a glimmer of hope when they won the draft lottery and selected standout rookie Cooper Flagg from Duke as the first overall pick. Flagg’s addition led to Thompson transitioning to a bench role for the first time since his rookie year with the Warriors.
Thompson’s buyout marks a significant overhaul of the Mavericks’ roster, leaving only five players from two years ago alongside new leadership in the front office and coaching staff.
Thompson, a four-time NBA champion with the Warriors, spent 13 seasons with Golden State before his stint with the Mavericks. Known for his sharpshooting, the 36-year-old maintained solid averages during his time in Dallas and continues to rank among the top players in career 3-pointers.
DeMar DeRozan has reportedly agreed to a one-year deal with the Denver Nuggets, adding a seasoned veteran to their backcourt as they aim for a championship. DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, brings a wealth of experience from his previous stints with various teams, including the Toronto Raptors and San Antonio Spurs.
The Nuggets made the move for DeRozan after trading Peyton Watson to Cleveland, seeking to bolster their roster with a proven scorer and playmaker. DeRozan’s arrival adds depth and leadership to the team as they gear up for the upcoming season.
