The Dallas Mavericks are putting a notable name on the NBA free agency market heading into the weekend, and the Detroit Pistons should be paying attention.
On Friday, August 21, the Dallas Mavericks announced that they are moving on from Klay Thompson.
The star sharpshooter is agreeing to a buyout with the club and will soon be a free agent. Thompson will surely be a top free agent for contending teams.
Dallas Mavericks Announce Klay Thompson News
“One of the greatest to ever do it. Champion, leader and a true pro. Thanks for everything, Cap 💙 #MFFL,” the Mavericks wrote on the social media platform, X.
Thanks for everything, Cap 💙 #MFFL
Klay Thompson will now get a chance to entertain some of his top suitors, which could include the Miami Heat and his former stomping grounds in California with the Golden State Warriors.
Should The Pistons Consider Klay Thompson?
GettyATLANTA, GEORGIA – MARCH 10: Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts following the Atlanta Hawks 124-112 victory over the Dallas Mavericks at State Farm Arena on March 10, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
Detroit had a tough offseason in terms of missing out on some of their top targets.
The priority was to add notable sharpshooters to help with their three-point struggles from the 2026 playoff run.
During his two-season run, Thompson remained a valuable shooter, mostly in a bench role. He averaged 12.9 points per game while shooting 38.7% from beyond the arc.
Before that, Thompson had a star-caliber run with the Golden State Warriors. Over 11 seasons, Thompson averaged 19.6 points while shooting 41.3% from deep.
The Pistons couldn’t get Thompson’s attention when he became a free agent a couple of years back because they didn’t seem ready to contend. They are certainly in that class within the Eastern Conference now, so they look better to prominent free agents.
However, Thompson might already have his mind made up. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Thompson is eyeing the Heat. Unless the Pistons have a strong Hail Mary effort, the 36-year-old probably won’t even look their way.