The Miami Heat’s interest in Klay Thompson appears to be holding steady, even as the path to getting him gets a little more complicated.
Dallas, according to reports, is open to moving on from the veteran guard as it continues reshaping the roster around rookie sensation Cooper Flagg. The Mavericks are also looking to open up more frontcourt and wing minutes, which has only added fuel to the speculation around Thompson’s future.
What makes this situation interesting is that Miami’s pursuit doesn’t seem tied to the LeBron James decision that has the rest of the league waiting. Anthony Chiang reported that the Heat are expected to keep after Thompson no matter where James lands.
“Among other shooters available, the Heat continues to hope that the Mavericks buy out Klay Thompson, who’s due $17.1 million this season. But Dallas reportedly remains more inclined to try to trade him,” the report read.
There is said to be mutual interest between Thompson and Miami, but the Heat are only expected to move forward if he reaches a buyout agreement with Dallas and becomes a free agent. A trade, at least for now, does not appear to be the route Miami is targeting.
Thompson is entering the final season of the three-year, $50 million deal he signed with the Mavericks. He is set to make roughly $17.4 million to $17.5 million in the 2026-27 season before becoming an unrestricted free agent.
On the court, Thompson’s second year in Dallas still showed what he can bring. In 69 games, he averaged 11.7 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 21.7 minutes per night. If he ends up in Miami, his shooting and off-ball movement would give the Heat’s star frontcourt more breathing room on offense.
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