Klay Thompson joins Miami Heat after buyout from Dallas Mavericks
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 26, 2026, 4:17 AM
Last updated Aug 26, 2026

Klay Thompson officially signed with the Miami Heat following a buyout from the Dallas Mavericks on August 26, 2026. He left approximately $9.8 million behind from his contract, opting for a better chance to compete for championships. Thompson expressed his desire to prioritize winning and cited the opportunity to play alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo as a major draw to Miami. The Heat are looking to strengthen their roster after trading for Antetokounmpo while releasing several key players. Thompson's transition marks a significant move as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.
- •Klay Thompson joined the Miami Heat following a buyout from the Dallas Mavericks.
- •He sacrificed roughly $9.8 million to facilitate the move.
- •Thompson was attracted to the chance to compete for championships.
- •He aims to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo, who recently joined Miami.
- •The Heat have reshaped their roster with high Finals aspirations.
- 4:17 AMYahoo Sports — Klay Thompson reveals real reason for $9.8 million sacrifice to join Miami Heat
- 12:09 AMYahoo Sports — Klay Thompson Reveals Why He Sacrificed Money to Join Miami Heat
"One analyst interpreted his livestream comments as a ‘bat signal’ for the Miami Heat. Klay Thompson made the union official not through a trade, but through a buyout and a fresh contract worth a fraction of what remained on his Dallas deal.
"New Miami Heat swingman Klay Thompson explained why he was willing to give up almost $10 million to ensure he could switch teams this offseason. Thompson spent most of the offseason as a member of the Dallas Mavericks and was owed $17.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 26, 2026, 4:17 AMKlay Thompson reveals real reason for $9.8 million sacrifice to join Miami Heat
New Miami Heat swingman Klay Thompson explained why he was willing to give up almost $10 million to ensure he could switch teams this offseason. Thompson spent most of the offseason as a member of the Dallas Mavericks and was owed $17.
- Yahoo SportsAug 26, 2026, 12:09 AMKlay Thompson Reveals Why He Sacrificed Money to Join Miami Heat
One analyst interpreted his livestream comments as a ‘bat signal’ for the Miami Heat. Klay Thompson made the union official not through a trade, but through a buyout and a fresh contract worth a fraction of what remained on his Dallas deal.
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