Buddy Hield to join Golden State Warriors following Klay Thompson’s departure

In a surprising move, Klay Thompson has decided to leave the Golden State Warriors and sign a deal with the Dallas Mavericks, as reported by USA Today’s Jeff Zillgitt. This departure marks the end of an era for Thompson with the Warriors, where he was a key player in winning four championships.

Despite losing Thompson, the Warriors have managed to secure another elite scorer in free agency. Buddy Hield is set to join the team in a sign-and-trade deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. Hield’s four-year deal includes $18 million guaranteed and is expected to strengthen the Warriors’ roster. This acquisition comes after the Warriors received a 2031 second-round pick from the Mavericks in exchange for Thompson.

Hield, who previously played for the Indiana Pacers before being traded to the 76ers, had a solid season in 2023-24, averaging 12.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. He will join forces with Steph Curry in the Warriors’ backcourt, forming a formidable duo for the team.

Thompson, who had spent his entire career with the Warriors and earned five All-Star selections and four championships, will now begin a new chapter with the Mavericks. He is set to sign a three-year, $50 million deal with Dallas. Thompson’s departure marks a significant change for the Warriors, who will need to adjust their lineup without him.