Giannis Antetokounmpo‘s addition certainly positioned the Miami Heat as a threat in the Eastern Conference, but it was resoundingly obvious that the team needed more depth. To address this, the Heat were linked to LeBron James, as well as other players. Unfortunately, with James headed to Philadelphia, Miami may need to resort to backup options.
Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson was largely viewed as one of the targets for the Heat this summer. It is worth noting that acquiring Thompson was considered important regardless of Miami’s pursuit of James. However, with the 41-year-old off the table, the Heat are expected to invest heavily in bringing the four-time champion over to South Beach.
The Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson reported on Miami’s revitalized interest in Klay Thompson by writing:
“ Thompson remains the Heat priority, even though there’s no indication when or if he will shake free from Dallas.”
However, Jackson built upon this by noting Miami’s ongoing conversations with DeMar DeRozan, adding:
“Though the Heat has interest in DeRozan and appreciates his skills, at least one Heat official wants to be patient and wait out the market before making a move with one of the team’s three open roster spots, a source said.”
“DeRozan has interest in the Heat, but he has other suitors, and Miami must determine quickly whether they will move forward with any offer involving at least some of the Heat’s remaining $8 million in exception money. Because the Heat covets Klay Thompson, who remains under contract to Dallas, it’s questionable if the Heat will be willing to offer exception money to DeRozan or anyone else.”
Similarly, even veteran guard Bradley Beal finds himself gaining some interest from Miami in free agency. On that note, Jackson shared:
“ Though the Heat spoke with free agent guard Bradley Beal’s camp earlier this summer, waiting on Thompson remained the preference as of the end of the week.”
Like many players in free agency, DeMar DeRozan’s offseason moves were also largely dictated by LeBron James’ pending decision. Now, with James joining the 76ers, DeRozan has become a key target again. Despite this, it is becoming alarmingly clear that the Heat want to add Klay Thompson using the mid-level exception.
Is It Feasible For The Heat To Land Klay Thompson?
Miami’s interest in acquiring Klay Thompson is perfectly understandable. Even though Thompson isn’t the player he was a few years ago, the veteran still positions himself as an elite sharpshooter and offensive contributor.
Last season, Thompson averaged 11.7 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game while shooting 39.3% from the field and 38.3% from three-point range in 69 appearances. Aside from durability, Thompson proved himself to be a solid role player, the kind who could thrive in the Heat’s new offense.
But is it really feasible for the Heat to go after Klay Thompson?
As Jackson reported, the Mavericks have no reason to want to buy out Thompson’s $17.5 million expiring contract. Although there have been discussions on the topic, there is a general understanding that Dallas would prefer to offload Thompson in a trade instead.
Realistically, while a trade is doable, Miami may not see as much value in it, as it would require them to part with draft capital and player assets. The overall impact on their roster, especially at this price tag, isn’t very favorable. Hence, angling for a buyout appears to be a better alternative.
Currently, there are contradictory reports about Klay Thompson’s buyout discussions with the Mavericks. While there is no conclusive timeline for when the four-time NBA champion will clear waivers, there is a belief that if a buyout is to be agreed upon, Thompson would have to leave a considerable amount of money on the table.
Purely in light of the circumstances and how the free agency market is likely to move now that James is out of the picture, the Heat may be advised to shift their gaze elsewhere. On that note, there may be more merit for Miami to pursue Bradley Beal or DeMar DeRozan.
Given their need for a reliable perimeter threat, however, signing Beal may be more appropriate. But since the veteran guard is also garnering interest from other teams, Miami may need to move quickly.
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