Klay Thompson is heading to Miami, and the move has made an already exciting offseason even more interesting. The five-time All-Star has agreed to join the Heat after reaching a buyout with the Dallas Mavericks. He will now wear No. 11 again in Miami. Thompson wore the number during his long run with the Golden State Warriors. He had switched to No. 31 after moving to Dallas two years ago. Now, the familiar No. 11 is back. The change adds a nice touch to what is already a big move for the Heat.
Thompson’s arrival also gives Miami another big name alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo. The Heat have made major moves this summer and now look like a much more exciting team on paper. Thompson chose Miami after leaving Dallas and reportedly agreed to a two-year deal worth around $11.5 million. He also gave up money to make the move happen.
For Miami fans, the move feels like another reason to be hopeful. Thompson brings plenty of experience after winning four championships with Golden State. He is also one of the NBA’s best three-point shooters. The Heat will hope his move to No. 11 marks the start of a fresh chapter. After a difficult spell in Dallas, Thompson now gets another chance to chase a championship in Miami.
“Klay is one of the most iconic players”: Pat Riley welcomes Thompson to Miami Heat
Pat Riley has welcomed Klay Thompson to the Miami Heat with a strong message about what the veteran can bring. Thompson officially joined Miami after the Dallas Mavericks bought out the final year of his contract. The move gives the Heat another experienced player as they look to compete for championships. Riley believes Thompson can offer much more than his well-known shooting ability.
“Klay is one of the most iconic players to ever suit up in the NBA,” Riley said. He also described him as a four-time battle tested World Champion who can contribute at both ends of the court. Riley stressed that Thompson’s value goes beyond making three-pointers. “We all talk about his shooting skill, but there is so much more he brings to the game,” he said. Riley also praised Thompson for choosing Miami and joining the team’s championship push. “We are blessed that Klay chose the Heat in our quest to challenge for championships,” he added.
The move reunites Thompson with a new group of stars in Miami. He will play alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo. The 36-year-old brings four NBA championships and years of experience to the team. Miami will hope his arrival adds both confidence and another reliable shooting option. For Riley, though, Thompson’s experience and all-round game appear just as important.
