Klay Thompson signs with Miami Heat after buyout from Dallas
Former Golden State guard Klay Thompson completed a buyout with the Dallas Mavericks and joined the Miami Heat, turning down interest from the Los Angeles Lakers.
Klay Thompson, a five-time NBA All-Star and four-time champion, finalized a buyout with the Dallas Mavericks on Friday and signed a one-year contract with the Miami Heat on Sunday. The 36-year-old guard will earn $5.6 million for the season, leaving the Heat with salary-cap space to fill additional roster spots.
Thompson appeared in half a season with Dallas, averaging 12.9 points and shooting 38.7 percent from three-point range. Over his career he has earned $298 million and ranks fourth all-time in three-pointers made, according to ESPN.
Both Miami and the Los Angeles Lakers were reported as potential destinations, but Thompson chose the Heat, a decision noted by The Athletic as reflecting his personal ties to Los Angeles and the Heat's frequent mention as a landing spot.
The addition gives Miami a proven perimeter shooter to complement its existing stars and provides the team with flexibility to pursue further roster moves as the season progresses.