NBA star Klay Thompson has always been compared to Hall of Fame star Ray Allen throughout his career. Thompson became known as one of the best catch-and-shoot players. This mirrored one of Allen's best offensive weapons during his playing days. When the former 10-time All-Star was active, he was one of the most lethal catch-and-shoot stars.
The comparisons became stronger when Thompson signed a two-year contract to join the Miami Heat for the 2026-27 season. It was the same move that Allen made in 2012, when he left the Boston Celtics and moved to South Beach.
The organization formally introduced Thompson on Tuesday. He was asked how he felt about being compared to the two-time champion during one of his interviews. According to the five-time All-Star, he has no problem being compared to Allen and said that the former star became his inspiration.
Nov 24, 2025; Miami, Florida, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson (31) takes a three-point shot as Miami Heat forward Keshad Johnson (16) closes in during the second half at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images
"Of course I like those comparisons. I love Ray Allen. Are you kidding me?" Thompson said. " Him and Reggie were the blueprint for my whole off ball formula.
"It gives me chills I'm even in the same sentence as Ray because if you told me this my rookie season, I would've never believed you. Ray has one of the greatest shots in history and I still practice that drill — that backpedal drill he did in Game 6 (in the) 2013 (NBA Finals). I love those comparisons."
The Heat hopes that Klay Thompson 's run with the team will be as productive as Allen's. The former star player helped Miami win the 2013 championship against the San Antonio Spurs . The former two-time All-NBA star appeared in 152 games , averaging 10.3 points on 39.8% shooting from deep.
Klay Thompson is aware of the Heat's history as champions. Pat Riley, the team president, created the Heat Culture, which helped them win three titles. When he was officially introduced, Thompson expressed that joining the franchise was a dream come true for him.
"Incredible history that Miami has created and I just really want to be apart of that," he said. "Really exciting — I've always loved playing here. I've always loved playing in Miami especially in the winter time. … To be able to live that life and be the best athlete I can be, it's really a dream come true."
Thompson will wear his iconic No. 11 jersey with the Heat after wearing No. 31 in his two-year stay with the Dallas Mavericks .
