Just how badly did Klay Thompson want to join the Miami Heat?
According to the Sun Sentinel’s Ira Winderman, the veteran sharpshooter gave up almost $10 million in his buyout with the Dallas Mavericks, as his Heat salary starts at $5.6 million for next season.
That kind of financial sacrifice gave the Heat enough room to add two players at a veteran’s minimum for the 2026-2027 NBA season. The cut was worthy of praise.
Klay Thompson Won Over Heat Fans Before Playing A Game
GettyDALLAS, TEXAS – JANUARY 22: Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts after scoring during the second quarter against the Golden State Warriors at American Airlines Center on January 22, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. 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 Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
Whenever players take a personal hit–or verbally express their interest in joining a team–it tends to go over very well with NBA fans on that side.
Miami Heat fans are understandably thrilled at getting Thompson on the roster without a trade. The fact that he made an immediate financial impact in a positive way by taking less than expected just made the pickup even more exciting.
“Look at Miami Heat legend Klay Thompson so inspirational,” Ok-External9601 wrote on Reddit.
“It’s really something bc we weren’t going to fill that 15th spot and be hardcapped until December or so,” AlreadyRedittt added on Reddit.
“Idk how well it will go on the court but he definitely gave up quite a bit to be here,” globehipper2 said.
GettySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 25: Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks (L) and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors (R) shakes hands at center court while they warm up prior to the start of their game at Chase Center on December 25, 2025 in San Francisco, California. 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 Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Klay Thompson spent the previous two seasons playing for the Mavericks.
Last year, Thompson appeared in 69 games, picking up just eight starts. He struggled from the field overall, making just 39.3% of his attempts, but Thompson still proved to be a solid long-range shooter after hitting 38.3% of his threes.
During his final run with the Mavs, Thompson averaged 11.7 points per game.
“I take every traffic cone joke I ever made about him back,” WoWMHC joked after hearing about the discounted deal.
Heat lifer!” Heatrealist said.
The Miami Heat have put together a strong offseason, which was headlined by the blockbuster addition of Giannis Antetokounmpo.
With a focus on fixing the potential floor-spacing issues, Miami needed three-point threats to add to the mix. Thompson certainly fits the bill.
With over 900 games under his belt, Thompson has averaged 18.6 points per game while hitting 40.9% of his shots from deep.