Mavericks, Klay Thompson reportedly not discussing buyout

There has been plenty of speculation about Klay Thompson potentially becoming available to the Heat or another contender.

But the Mavericks apparently aren’t ready to simply let him walk.

Specifically, Dallas and Thompson are not currently discussing a contract buyout, according to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.

The Mavericks have explored the trade market for the 36-year-old guard, but nothing has materialized to this point. Thompson is owed $17.5 million next season before becoming eligible for free agency in 2027.

Miami has repeatedly been linked to Thompson this summer, particularly in the event that he reaches a buyout with Dallas and becomes a free agent. That doesn’t appear imminent.

The Mavericks also have some incentive to remain patient. They currently have 16 players on standard contracts and need to make at least one roster move, but Thompson’s expiring deal and shooting could still hold some value on the trade market.

His overall production declined last season, when he averaged career lows of 11.7 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 21.7 minutes per game. The shooting, however, hasn’t disappeared.

Thompson still connected on 38.3 percent of 7.6 attempts from beyond the arc and appeared in 69 games.

Dallas has added younger shooting options and Thompson’s future with the organization remains very much uncertain. But uncertainty doesn’t necessarily mean a buyout.