The Dallas Mavericks and veteran guard-forward Klay Thompson have agreed to a contract buyout, bringing an end to his two-season run with the franchise.
The Mavericks announced the agreement Friday, August 21, 2026, ending a partnership that began with high expectations when Thompson arrived in Dallas in 2024.
Thompson joined the Mavericks after 13 seasons with the Golden State Warriors, where he became one of the most accomplished shooters of his generation and won four NBA championships. Dallas hoped his experience and elite three-point shooting would strengthen a roster built around Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving.
Those plans changed dramatically after Dončić was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2025. The Mavericks subsequently entered a different phase, and Thompson’s role and production declined during his time in Dallas.
A two-year Dallas stint
Thompson appeared in 141 games for Dallas, including 80 starts, and averaged 12.9 points per game over his two seasons. He remained a dangerous perimeter shooter, but his overall offensive production was well below the levels he reached during his championship years in Golden State.
During the 2025-26 season, Thompson averaged 11.7 points per game while shooting 38.3% from three-point range. Despite the reduced numbers, his shooting ability continued to make him an attractive option for teams looking for veteran perimeter scoring.
Mavericks president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri praised Thompson after the agreement, calling him one of the great players and competitors of his generation and expressing appreciation for what he brought to the organization.
Miami emerges as Thompson’s next destination
Thompson is expected to continue his career with the Miami Heat after clearing waivers, according to reports. ESPN sources indicated that the five-time All-Star intends to join Miami, although the move remains subject to the completion of the waiver process.
A move to Miami would give Thompson another opportunity to compete for a championship while providing the Heat with an experienced three-point shooter.
At 36, Thompson remains among the NBA’s most accomplished long-range shooters. He ranks fourth all-time in made three-pointers, with 2,899 entering this next chapter of his career.
A new direction for Dallas
For the Mavericks, the buyout marks another step in reshaping the roster and moving forward from the turbulent period that followed Dončić’s departure.
Thompson’s arrival was initially viewed as a major addition for a team coming off an NBA Finals appearance. Instead, Dallas missed the playoffs in both of his seasons with the franchise.
Now the Mavericks and Thompson will move in separate directions.
For Dallas, the priority is building its next roster around a younger core. For Thompson, the potential move to Miami offers a chance to contribute his championship experience and shooting to another team with postseason ambitions.
After two seasons, one of basketball’s most recognizable shooters is leaving Dallas—but his NBA career appears far from finished.
Source: nba
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