Klay Thompson trade talks between Dallas Mavericks and Miami Heat

NBA insiders report that the Dallas Mavericks are seeking to move veteran guard Klay Thompson rather than grant him a buyout, as the forward approaches the final year of his contract. The Miami Heat have emerged as the most likely trade partner, with the Mavericks eyeing a straight‑salary swap that would bring Miami’s 6‑foot‑10 forward Nikola Jovic to Dallas. Jovic, on a four‑year, $62 million deal, matches Thompson’s $17.5 million salary, allowing a clean trade without additional assets.

Dallas faces severe salary‑cap constraints after depleting draft capital, making the acquisition of a young, contract‑locked player like Jovic an attractive option. The Heat, meanwhile, are eager for elite shooting to complement their frontcourt. Both teams are exploring a deal that could also include a draft pick, while a buyout remains unlikely unless Thompson accepts a significant pay cut.