Heat's Priority Is Clear: Klay Thompson

The Miami Heat have once again turned their attention to Dallas Mavericks sharpshooter Klay Thompson as they look to add three-point shooting to their roster. According to Miami Herald's Barry Jackson, the Heat see the four-time champion as a clear priority and are hoping he becomes available via a contract buyout. Thompson, who has one season remaining on his $17.4 million deal with Dallas, could give up around $7 million of his salary in order to become a free agent.

The Heat reportedly have roughly $8 million left of their mid-level exception, which they plan to use to lure Thompson to South Beach. However, reports out of Dallas suggest the Mavericks would rather explore the trade market than negotiate a buyout. The organization is under no financial or roster pressure to move on from Thompson, and a buyout would only happen if the savings were substantial.

On Miami's end, the club has also spoken with DeMar DeRozan and Bradley Beal, but Thompson remains the preferred target. Following LeBron James' move to the Philadelphia 76ers, the Heat are said to be charting a new roster direction, aiming to add more shooting around Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo.

Source: Miami Herald
Image: Lakers Daily