The Dallas Mavericks secured significant future trade flexibility after Klay Thompson agreed to a buyout, sacrificing $9.8 million of his $17.5 million salary for the 2026-27 season. NBA insider Brian Windhorst detailed how this specific figure gives the Mavericks a full mid-level exception to use in deals. The team is currently on a two-game winning run, most recently defeating the Chicago Bulls 149-128 on April 13, 2026.
Why did Klay Thompson give up so much money?
Thompson's departure from Dallas was expected this offseason. He was initially seen as a potential final piece for a championship run, but plans shifted. The four-time NBA champion has since signed with the Miami Heat.
In a typical buyout, a player might give up the salary they are set to earn. Klay Thompson gave up far more. He walked away from $9.8 million, a decision that raised eyebrows across the league. Brian Windhorst, a respected ESPN reporter, provided clarity on the negotiations.
"This was a negotiation, and we know it was a negotiation because of how much money Klay gave up," Windhorst said. "He gave up $9.8 million. A typical buyout is a guy giving up what he’s getting. Klay gave up way more."
How does this help the Dallas Mavericks?
The Mavericks' front office had a clear financial target. Windhorst explained that the $9.8 million figure is directly tied to the NBA's mid-level exception (MLE). Under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement, this exception can be used as a trade tool.
"The mid-level exception for years was something you could use to sign a player." Windhorst noted. "That was clearly the threshold. My point is $9.8 million is kind of a random number."
This gives the organization important flexibility. With a core built around Luka Doncic and pieces from their 2024 Finals appearance, the ability to make trades is a priority. You can track the team's evolving roster on our [squad](/squad) page.
What is the context for the Mavericks right now?
The team's immediate focus is on building momentum. Their recent form shows two wins and three losses in their last five outings (WWLLL). They are currently riding that two-game winning streak.
Superstar Cooper Flagg is entering his second NBA season, adding another layer to the team's development timeline. Finding the right supporting cast around him and Doncic will define their playoff hopes. For Thompson, moving to a better situation in Miami was apparently more important than maximizing his final paycheck from Dallas.
Windhorst summed it up by stating the Mavericks were "holding the line" on that specific $9.8 million figure. This strategic financial move provides them with a key asset for roster construction ahead of the next NBA trade deadline. Fans can follow the team's progress in the [standings](/standings) as the season develops.
