After some talk of the town trade acquisitions and impressive new signings in free agency, the Miami Heat still has three to four open spots on its roster. And to fill them, on their radar now is the NBA’s 4th most prolific three-point shooter, Klay Thompson. Recently, the rumor mill has been abuzz with the idea that Miami is pursuing Thompson, as he is a suitable candidate for their guard vacancy.
So, what are the pros that are attracting the Heat to Thompson?
What makes Klay Thompson so alluring for the Heat?
How Can Klay Thompson Be of Service?
The Heat is still on the lookout for a guard, and the Dallas Mavericks guard could be their answer. According to Barry Jackson and Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald, Thompson is coming off as a “strong interest” for the franchise. The 36-year-old is a league veteran in his own right. Drafted in 2011 and with fifteen years under his belt, he is adept at off-ball movement and perimeter defense, and is widely celebrated for his supreme shooting skills. His 6’5″ frame and 6’9” wingspan make him an easy threat for small players.
Currently, Miami is in dire need of someone who can look after perimeter shooting to space the floor around Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, and Thompson fits as the perfect puzzle piece. His elite quick release and deep shooting range are backed by spectacular stats and history spread across his career. Along with his three-point shooting, Thompson would also bring locker-room guidance to the young faces and championship and playoff experience from his time with the Heat. His four-time NBA championship adds to his allure.
Moreover, in the later phase of his career, the five-time All-Star has risen to the acclaimed status of veteran sharpshooter. Though he had a challenging season last year while recovering from ACL injuries, he still played 69 regular-season games. Thompson averaged 21.7 minutes, 11.7 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. He shot 39.3% from the field and 38.3% from three-point range. Dallas itself struggled as a team, but Thompson tried to give his best and keep the ship stirring. Experienced in choppy waters, Thompson can strike a balance at Miami too.
Can the Miami Heat Afford Thompson?
Thompson’s salary for the next season is $17.4 million, a part of the 3-year, $50 million sign-and-trade contract he made with the Mavericks in 2024. So, there are two options for the Heat to acquire him: a trade, preferred by the Mavericks, or hoping the Mavs buy him out before the season.
According to insider Marc Stein, Dallas, which doesn’t see a future with the player, is entertaining a trade for Thompson. Therefore, they can add assets to their chest. If the Heat traded for Thompson, Nikola Jovic and his four-year, $62 million contract could be on the move.
LeBron James Isn’t a Factor for Thompson Trade
What’s intriguing is that their interest in Thompson isn’t affected by the non-inclusion of LeBron James, as was earlier reported. For the Heat, James would be only possible if the player’s generous heart accepted the veteran minimum contract. According to Jackson and Chiang, the Heat would continue to pursue Thompson even if James refuses to join them.
After finally getting their superstar, Miami’s next target is an obvious James, who is also targeted by a majority of teams in both conferences. But while this dance with the devil continues, the Heat wouldn’t let it stop them from getting other strong players.
While there is much to unravel in this offseason, Miami is leaving no stone unturned in strengthening its roster. And if all goes well, then Thompson could be a big part of it and could take them to the championship.
William Liang, Imagn Images via Reuters Connect
