Klay Thompson, the free-agent wing, is set to join the Dallas Mavericks on a three-year, $50-million contract, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Thompson’s move concludes his storied tenure with the Golden State Warriors as part of a multi-team sign-and-trade agreement. Sources indicate that former Mavericks wing Josh Green will head to the Charlotte Hornets as part of the deal, with Charlotte sending two second-round picks, potentially one to Golden State, in exchange for Green.
In return, the Warriors will receive two future second-round picks from Dallas, reported by The Athletic’s Shams Charania.
Despite receiving more lucrative four-year offers elsewhere, Thompson opted for a lesser salary in pursuit of a fifth championship opportunity, considering the competitive landscape and tax implications. Following the Warriors’ exploration of alternative options, Thompson engaged with Dallas, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Los Angeles Clippers early in free agency.
Meanwhile, Golden State is poised to sign former Philadelphia 76ers guard De’Anthony Melton to a one-year, $12.8-million deal, sources detailed to Shams Charania.
Thompson’s performance in the past season saw him average 17.9 points, marking his lowest since his second year in the NBA. He started 63 games and came off the bench for 14. Despite a 46-36 record, the Warriors missed the playoffs after a loss in the play-in tournament.
The Mavericks, fresh from their NBA Finals appearance, where they fell to the Boston Celtics in five games, facilitated Thompson’s acquisition by reportedly trading Tim Hardaway Jr. to the Detroit Pistons for guard Quentin Grimes. Additionally, Dallas secured former New Orleans Pelicans wing Naji Marshall on a three-year, $27-million contract.
Thompson’s departure concludes an 11-season journey with the Warriors since being drafted 11th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft. He played a pivotal role in the franchise’s success, contributing to championship victories in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022. Thompson earned All-NBA third team honors in 2015 and 2016.
At 34 years old, Thompson ranks second in Warriors history for 3-point field goals with 2,481, trailing only his former backcourt partner Stephen Curry. He held the distinction as the second-longest-tenured player with a single franchise, behind Curry.
