Klay Thompson’s ‘only goal’ fuels fresh Mavericks exit talk amid buyout speculation  

Klay Thompson made his priorities clear this week, and none of them sound like sticking around the Dallas Mavericks for the long haul.

Speaking on PlaqueBoyMax's Twitch stream, the veteran sharpshooter shared what he wants from the rest of his career. It's putting fresh weight behind the buyout and trade chatter already surrounding him.

When asked about his outlook heading into the season, Thompson didn't hide his only goal. 

"I want to compete for a championship, not necessarily win one, but just like have the chance to go and try and get another one," Thompson said. "I want to play a role on a team that I want to make a deep playoff run, whether it's this season or next season, but that's really my only goal."

This mindset explains why he does not fit with the current Mavericks. Since trading away Luka Doncic, Dallas is completely rebuilding its team around young star Cooper Flagg. Winning an urgent title is nearly impossible for a young, rebuilding roster. 

That’s why Thompson, who is entering the final year of his contract, has spent the summer amid trade rumors involving the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat. Miami recently traded for superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo and desperately needs outside shooters to group with him and Bam Adebayo. 

Reports have also tied the Lakers to the four-time NBA champion, as rumors suggest his deep California roots make Los Angeles a preferred landing spot if he leaves Dallas.

However, sources told ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel that the two sides are not negotiating a buyout right now. Instead, the Mavericks are exploring trade routes for his expiring deal. The 36-year-old shot 38.3% from three-point range across 69 games last season. This production still carries value on the trade market, even though his scoring average dropped to 11.7 points.

Until Dallas finds another team willing to make a deal, Thompson is only a Maverick on paper. But his remarks suggest he wants to leave Dallas and find a team that gives him a real chance to chase one more championship.

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