Klay Thompson joined the Dallas Mavericks in the 2024 offseason, hoping to contribute to a contending team, but just 18 months later, that roster is shifting into rebuild mode. This unexpected turn raises questions about a possible buyout and whether Thompson might join a playoff contender elsewhere.
Predictions Point to Thompson Leaving Mavericks for Spurs
Despite speculation before the recent trade deadline, no deal involving Thompson materialized, even as other veteran stars like Anthony Davis moved teams. Thompson remains on a rebuilding Dallas team centered around top draft pick Cooper Flagg. However, Sports Illustrated’s Joey Akeley suggests that a buyout could be imminent, with Thompson poised to sign with the San Antonio Spurs for the rest of the season.
The Spurs are in the bottom 10 in three-point percentage, so they should have interest in Thompson if he gets bought out. Though Thompson is under contract for $17.5 million next season, I bet he’d be willing to give up a good chunk of that to join a contender,
Akeley wrote.
While Thompson’s contract is not expiring soon, making a buyout unusual, the Mavericks’ current rebuilding status contrasts with the promising vision sold when they signed him. Some believe the club owes Thompson, a five-time All-Star, a chance to move to a more competitive environment.
Warriors Reunion Unlikely Due to Salary Cap Rules
Although Thompson is a four-time NBA champion with Golden State and fans may hope for his return, the financial rules block this move. Thompson’s salary exceeds the non-taxpayer mid-level exception, preventing the Warriors from re-signing him without incurring luxury tax penalties due to their salary cap situation.
If Thompson leaves Dallas, he would be joining a third NBA team, which could be a difficult adjustment for him and disheartening for Golden State supporters expecting a reunion. Nonetheless, it’s clear that remaining on a non-contending Mavericks team doesn’t align with his championship aspirations.
Current Performance Offers Hope but Also Uncertainty
After being relegated to a bench role early in the season, Thompson has found better form, now averaging 11.6 points with a 37.6% success rate from beyond the arc. Despite this improvement, the Mavericks’ rebuilding strategy makes his long-term future there uncertain and fuels speculation about a buyout and signing with a contender.
