Klay Thompson buys out with Mavericks, joins Miami Heat after Lakers snub
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 4:15 PM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026

Klay Thompson's two-year stint with the Dallas Mavericks ended with a buyout, allowing him to sign a two-year deal with the Miami Heat. Thompson originally chose Dallas over the Los Angeles Lakers due to concerns about Anthony Davis' injury history. Ironically, after Dallas traded Luka Doncic to the Lakers for Davis, Thompson found himself in a similar situation with a different roster. President of Basketball Operations Masai Ujiri praised Thompson’s contributions during his time in Dallas, despite the team missing the playoffs both seasons. Before joining Miami, Thompson must clear the NBA waiver wire.
- •Thompson averaged 12.9 points in 141 games with Dallas.
- •He signed a two-year, $13 million deal with Miami after the buyout.
- •Concerns about Anthony Davis influenced Thompson's choice to snub the Lakers.
- •Thompson’s buyout was officially announced on August 22, 2026.
- 4:15 PMYahoo Sports — Klay Thompson’s 2024 Lakers snub for Mavericks tied to key concern over Anthony Davis
"Klay Thompson's buyout from Dallas highlights the irony of his choice over the Lakers, especially after Anthony Davis and Luka Doncic traded teams.
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