Draymond Green issued a blunt reality check on former teammate’s aging game as South Beach hopes Klay Thompson’s legendary shooting sparks a Ray Allen-style title run.
MIAMI, Fla. – Klay Thompson had his Miami Heat introductory press conference on Wednesday, but former Golden State Warriors teammate Draymond Green made interesting comments beforehand.
“Let’s stop acting like 2017 Klay is going to Miami,” he said on his podcast, The Draymond Green Show. “Don’t try to build it up so that you can tear him down.”
It should be obvious that Thompson is no longer in his prime. He will turn 37 years old during the 2026-27 season. The Heat aren’t hoping Thompson rediscovers his old ways, but rather maximize what he can currently deliver.
The five-time All-Star is one of the most prolific three-point shooters in league history. He’s currently third in all-time makes from behind the arc – 2,899 and counting. Thompson’s shooting will be important as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo will draw extra attention when attacking the rim. It will break down defenses and create open looks for him to knock down.
Thompson’s arrival in South Florida has drawn comparisons to when Ray Allen joined in the summer of 2012. He was 37 years old and in the backend of his Hall of Fame 18-year career. Allen joined a situation he saw as the best fit to compete for a championship. It wound up being an immediate success, including one of the greatest three-point shots in league history.
Allen made 10 All-Star and two All-NBA teams before playing for the Heat. However, he put the team’s needs before himself. Allen embraced a smaller role by coming off the bench and attempting a handful of shots.
Thompson’s role on the Heat isn’t defined yet. Ahead of training camp, he will have the opportunity to compete for a starting role. It’s not a guarantee, but Thompson doesn’t appear concerned about it. He made the financial sacrifice to sign with the Heat and re-join a championship-contending situation.
Allen received $6.3 million from the organization by signing a two-year deal.
The Heat are among the favorites to win the Eastern Conference, but the roster still isn’t finished. With two standard roster spots open and nearly $5 million in space before crossing the first-apron threshold, quality depth can be added. Free agents Nick Richards and Gabe Vincent have been consistently linked.
Thompson’s defense isn’t what it used to be, but the Heat have the personnel to surround him with help on that side of the court. He doesn’t need to turn the clock back; instead adapt to new teammates, system, and role. This offseason could end up being the best in Heat history, but claiming the Larry O’Brien trophy would solidify the case.
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
