The Miami Heat just made a big-time signing, adding Klay Thompson after he was bought out by the Dallas Mavericks. It always seemed like Thompson was destined to sign with the Heat. And it seems like he clearly wanted to go to Miami. Now, not only do the Heat have a great role player, but they also have someone who can be a perfect mentor for Ryan Conwell.
Conwell just got drafted to the Heat in the second round of the 2026 NBA Draft. He’s set up to play a relatively real role for them right away, especially considering the Heat’s relative lack of reliable depth. And considering Conwell projects to be a solid ball-handler and impressive three-point shooter, Thompson could be a great guy to help him develop.
When it comes to three-point shooters in the NBA, Thompson is almost as good as it gets. He’s arguably the second-greatest shooter of all-time, and that’s definitely the type of person who can help Conwell thrive as a three-point shooter in the NBA.
Klay Thompson can help Ryan Conwell develop
Miami made a massive trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo this summer. The Heat shipped out a ton of draft picks, but more importantly in the short-term, they gave up a bunch of depth.
Tyler Herro was sent out in the deal. As were Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kel’el Ware, and Kasparas Jakucionis. Plus, the Heat lost Norman Powell in free agency, as he signed with the Detroit Pistons.
That’s a lot of depth to lose in general, and especially at the guard position. That’s where Thompson can help them, and also where Conwell could help them in the long run.
In an ideal world, both guys are capable of playing solid minutes for the Heat right away, but neither is exactly in a perfect position to do so based on recent years.
Thompson hasn’t been the same player he once was. Not since he signed with the Mavericks. But perhaps there’s a version of him that could resurface and help the Heat while playing alongside the likes of Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo.
Meanwhile, Conwell is a solid player, and he played well for Louisville last season, but there’s a reason he slipped into the second round. Trusting a rookie to play heavy minutes isn’t always a reliable plan.
Both have a chance to help the Heat win at the highest level next year, but the relationship between Thompson and Conwell may be just as important. Because if Thompson can help Conwell develop as a three-point shooter, it will be great for the Heat right now and moving forward.
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