Klay Thompson to the Heat? Mavericks say no to a buyout – a trade is the only path

Klay Thompson’s future has become the first major issue for the new era of the Dallas Mavericks. Entering the final year of his $17.5 million contract, the four-time NBA champion finds himself in an awkward position on a roster caught between two timelines: experienced veterans ready to compete immediately and a promising young core – led by Cooper Flagg – that still needs time to develop.

While trade rumors have been circulating for weeks, the Miami Heat’s interest has become increasingly serious. The Florida franchise would welcome the veteran sharpshooter, but would prefer to sign him as a free agent following a buyout with Dallas. However, according to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Mavericks’ front office has no interest in taking that route.

The Dallas Mavericks are showing very little interest, as things currently stand, in the possibility of a buyout for Klay Thompson

Marc Stein

Why the Mavericks won’t buy out Thompson

The firm stance reflects the approach of Masai Ujiri, who was recently hired as the Mavericks’ President of Basketball Operations. Widely regarded as one of the NBA’s sharpest executives, Ujiri has no intention of giving away a valuable asset without receiving something in return.

Three-point shooting remains one of the league’s most valuable commodities, and while Thompson is no longer at the physical peak of his career, he still provides elite perimeter spacing after averaging 2.9 made threes per game on 38.3% shooting during the 2025-26 season.

For Dallas, a buyout would represent an absolute last resort-an option to consider only if the trade market completely dries up.

Ujiri knows he holds the leverage and has no reason to rush. The expectation is that the Miami Heat, who are in desperate need of floor spacing around Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, may eventually be willing to put together a trade package to acquire the veteran before the start of the season.