Does Klay Thompson Move the Needle for the Miami Heat's Championship Hopes?

MIAMI, Fla. – As Klay Thompson clears buyout waivers, he is reportedly signing with the Miami Heat, but the move doesn’t shift championship odds.

It’s no secret that the 36-year-old has a first-ballot Hall of Fame resume. Thompson played a significant role in the Golden State Warriors’ four NBA Championships in eight years. He still holds the record for the most three-pointers made in a single game, 14 on Oct. 29, 2018, against the Chicago Bulls. Thompson is currently fourth in the league’s all-time three-pointers made list, with 2,899 total.

However, times have changed for the five-time All-Star.

Thompson is coming off a career-worst season with the Dallas Mavericks, after superstar Luka Doncic was surprisingly traded to the Los Angeles Lakers a year prior. He averaged 11.7 points on 39.3 percent shooting in 69 games (eight starts). Although Thompson will still be effective for the Heat, he’s way past his prime.

Despite the narrative of adding shooters, the roster already had a few other options. The Heat had five players (Bobby Portis Jr., Andrew Wiggins, Tim Hardaway Jr., Davion Mitchell, and Simone Fontecchio) who shot at least 38 percent from behind the arc last season.

There are still other needs to address, such as a backup center. Free agent Nick Richards has been linked to the Heat for a few days. A couple of other available options are Kevin Love and Bismack Biyombo.

Although the Heat have several ball handlers, a backup point guard is another need. Rumors have circulated about a reunion with Gabe Vincent. He played a significant role in the Heat’s historic 2023 run to the NBA Finals as an eighth seed. A few other available options are Aaron Holiday, Nick Smith Jr., and Jahmir Young.

Thompson helps, but the acquisition doesn’t put the Heat over the top against other Eastern Conference contenders, such as the Philadelphia 76ers and reigning champion New York Knicks.

On a brighter note, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo will have the space to operate in the paint.

The Heat were already among the favorites to win the Eastern Conference for the 2026-27 season. However, the Thompson addition didn’t drastically change any narrative, viewpoints, or oddsmakers.

A press conference to introduce the two-time All-NBA guard/forward should be announced in the upcoming days. Thompson embraces a new chapter in South Florida with championship hopes, but it will take more than him to secure it.

Anthony Aguirre covers the Miami Hurricanes, Miami Heat, and Miami Marlins for Roundtable Sports. Contact info for tips/info: [email protected] & 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports