Klay Thompson linked to Lakers, Heat as Mavericks consider trade or buyout

The Dallas Mavericks have placed veteran sharpshooter Klay Thompson on the trade market as the 2026‑27 season approaches. Reports indicate the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat are the two franchises most frequently mentioned as potential destinations. A trade framework involving the Heat’s forward Nikola Jović has been discussed, though no agreement has materialised.

A buyout is also being explored; the Mavericks could allow Thompson to surrender roughly $7 million of his $17.5 million salary, freeing the Heat’s mid‑level exception to sign him outright. Thompson, who spent 13 seasons with the Golden State Warriors and won four championships, has said he would welcome a return to Los Angeles, where he owns a home.

Meanwhile, Kevin Durant’s recent social‑media comments that Klay Thompson “never an MVP candidate” sparked a public response from Thompson, who posted “Aye man, u good? What u using my full government for?” The exchange has added further attention to the trade speculation surrounding the 36‑year‑old, whose production has declined to around 11–14 points per game this season.