How Pelle Larsson impressed Klay Thompson ahead of his decision to join the Miami Heat

How Pelle Larsson impressed Klay Thompson ahead of his decision to join the Miami Heat originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo was a big deal for the Miami Heat because it took away a lot of their depth. Players like Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Kel’el Ware were superb during their time in Miami, but it also led to some of their teammates getting overlooked.

One of those teammates is Pelle Larsson, who has been a rock-solid player over the past few years. Thankfully for Larsson, he will get a bigger role this season, and he is already getting rave reviews from players who are just becoming teammates with him.

Pelle Larsson gets a rave review from new teammate Klay Thompson

As one of the NBA’s most experienced players, Thompson has a unique perspective on the league. He loves seeing role players shine, as he played with those kinds of players throughout his career, especially during his time with the Golden State Warriors.

Thompson knows what winning basketball looks like, and he sees that with how Larsson plays and works behind the scenes. Heat fans have been talking about Larsson for a long time, and how he fits into their system as a hardworking player.

MORE: Klay Thompson’s reason why he joined the Miami Heat and Erik Spoelstra’s system

On both ends of the floor, Larsson can make an impact due to his high-energy play and how well he knows how to read the game. This has impressed a lot of people within the Heat organization, which is why he is being trusted with a big role ahead of the 2026-27 season. One of those people who continue to be impressed by Larsson is Thompson.

“I saw Pelle in Spain at the NBA Players Association sanctuary in Spain to see his work ethic. I was very impressed with how much time he spent in the gym every day. I was like, ‘That does seem like a Miami guy.’ I was very encouraged by his work ethic, and I’m just excited to meet my new teammates,” Thompson said about Larsson in the introductory presser.

With this kind of support from a four-time champion, Larsson is in a good spot. The Swedish guard is ready to break out for Miami, and he is most likely raring to go, as he will be playing a bigger role than ever in the 2026-27 season for a resurgent Heat team.

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