7-time NBA All-Star thinks Mavericks' Klay Thompson decision could pay off big for Heat

Klay Thompson's stint with the Dallas Mavericks has officially come to an end as the team reached a buyout agreement with him, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent. He spent the first 13 seasons of his NBA career with the Golden State Warriors before joining Dallas in a sign-and-trade deal following the 2023-24 season.

\Following the buyout, Mavericks president Masai Ujiri expressed the organization's appreciation for Thompson's contributions. Ujiri said the franchise was grateful for everything he brought to the team, describing him as one of the greatest players and competitors of his generation.

The agreement cleared the path for Thompson to sign a contract with the Miami Heat. With the Mavericks shifting their focus toward building around Cooper Flagg, Thompson might have seen another championship opportunity.

Seven-time NBA All-Star  Joe Johnson believes Thompson is an ideal addition for Miami.

“If you’re Miami you gotta have floor spacing…so to have guys like Tim Hardaway Jr, Klay Thompson- guys who can really space the floor and make shots,” Johnson said in the Nightcap podcast. “Klay plays the right way, obviously championship pedigree is going to help Miami and what they’re trying to do.

“I’m excited for Klay. I really hope he gets the opportunity to play more championship caliber basketball.”

Thompson played two seasons with the Mavericks, averaging 12.9 points per game while shooting 38.7% from beyond the arc. During the 2025-26 campaign, he posted 11.7 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game while shooting 39.3% from the field and 38.3% from three-point range.

Thompson is a four-time NBA champion and is regarded as one of the greatest shooters in league history. He is expected to earn a place in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame after his playing career.

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