Miami – The Miami Heat announced on Sunday that veteran guard Klay Thompson cleared waivers and finalized a two‑year contract worth roughly $11.5 million. The second year of the deal is at Thompson’s option, giving the 36‑year‑old a chance to continue his 14‑season NBA career with a franchise that values his shooting and championship experience.
Why the Heat pursued Thompson
Thompson, the NBA’s No. 4 all‑time leader in three‑pointers made, brings a career 41 % shooting rate from beyond the arc. Last season he recorded more than 200 made three‑pointers for the 11th time, a milestone the Heat have only reached seven times in franchise history. His reputation as a clutch scorer and his five‑time All‑Star pedigree align with Miami’s goal of adding elite perimeter firepower.
Heat President Pat Riley praised Thompson, calling him “one of the most iconic players to ever suit up in the NBA” and noting his four‑time World Champion background. Riley added that Thompson’s love of water and boating fits well with the team’s home arena on the edge of Biscayne Bay, and his Bahamian heritage connects with a sizable fan base in the region.
Fit with the newly built roster
The signing follows Miami’s aggressive off‑season moves, most notably the acquisition of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis from the Milwaukee Bucks. The Heat also added Tim Hardaway Jr., a native of Miami who grew up while his father played for the franchise. Thompson’s ability to space the floor complements Antetokounmpo’s drive to the basket and provides a reliable shooting option for the team’s second‑unit guards.
Thompson’s resume includes four NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors as part of the famed “Splash Brothers” duo alongside Stephen Curry. He holds the league record for most three‑pointers in a single game (14) and has recorded at least ten three‑pointers in a game nine times. He enters the season just 74 three‑pointers shy of Ray Allen’s mark for third place on the all‑time list.
Previous stint with Dallas
Before returning to Miami, Thompson agreed to a contract buyout with the Dallas Mavericks, ending a two‑year spell that did not meet expectations after a series of high‑profile trades. The Mavericks originally obtained Thompson in a sign‑and‑trade with Golden State, hoping to pair his shooting with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Subsequent trades and injuries, including Irving’s ACL tear, altered those plans.
With the Heat, Thompson is expected to provide veteran leadership, a steady shooting presence, and a championship mindset that aligns with Miami’s pursuit of another title run.
What’s next for Miami
The Heat will integrate Thompson into their preseason program, aiming to develop chemistry with Antetokounmpo, Bam Adebayo, and the rest of the roster. Fans can look forward to seeing how the new trio of shooting, size, and athleticism shapes the team’s offensive strategy as the NBA season approaches.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
