The Heat could lose important players this summer to form a new Big Three.
The Miami Heat, headed by Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, have made two Finals appearances in four seasons. However, they may need to make changes this summer if they do not win a championship. As Jimmy Butler approaches 35, the Heat’s chances of winning a title are diminishing. This might lead to the formation of a future Big Three.
The Heat could lose up to 13 players this summer, including crucial contributors like Tyler Herro, who has performed well this season, averaging 20.8 points per game, in order to build a powerful team in the East.
Tyler Herro – Via Trade
Contract Status: $29,000,000 In 2024-25, $31,000,000 In 2025-26, $33,000,000 In 2026-27
2023-24 Season Statistics: 20.8 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Tyler Herro is widely regarded as one of the most promising young talents in the NBA, and his absence during the 2023 Finals was keenly felt by the Miami Heat. Despite his considerable offensive prowess, there’s speculation that the Heat might entertain the idea of trading Herro to acquire a third All-Star player, thereby forming a formidable Big Three alongside Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.
One potential target for the Heat could be Donovan Mitchell, a dynamic shooting guard renowned for his scoring prowess and leadership qualities. Mitchell’s addition could furnish the Heat with another scoring threat and playmaking presence alongside Butler and Adebayo.
Alternatively, Trae Young could emerge as a viable option if the Atlanta Hawks opt for a roster rebuild. Young, an electrifying point guard with exceptional scoring and passing abilities, could significantly bolster the Heat’s backcourt.
Other prospective trade targets for the Heat include DeMar DeRozan (via sign-and-trade) and Zach LaVine, both established scorers in the league. DeRozan brings a wealth of experience and offensive versatility, while LaVine is distinguished by his elite athleticism and scoring prowess. These potential acquisitions could further strengthen the Heat’s roster and enhance their competitiveness in the league.
Terry Rozier – Via Trade
Contract Status: $24,924,126 In 2024-25, $26,643,031 Team Option In 2025-26
2023-24 Season Statistics: 15.3 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 5.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG
The addition of Terry Rozier before the trade deadline this season was a strategic move by the Miami Heat management. His style of play, characterized by toughness and strong defense, resonates well with the Heat’s culture. However, in light of the Heat’s potential pursuit of All-Star players such as Donovan Mitchell, Trae Young, or Zach LaVine, Rozier could find himself included in trade packages to meet salary requirements.
Rozier’s two-way play, marked by his defensive tenacity and scoring prowess, makes him an appealing asset in trade discussions. His versatility as a combo guard provides depth to any roster, making him an attractive target for teams aiming to strengthen their backcourt. While parting with Rozier would undoubtedly be a difficult decision for the Heat, given his compatibility with the team’s culture, it might be a necessary move to acquire the talent necessary for competing at the highest level.
Duncan Robinson – Via Trade
Contract Status: $19,406,000 In 2024-25, $19,888,000 Player Option In 2025-26
2023-24 Season Statistics: 13.5 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 3.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Duncan Robinson contributes significantly to the Heat’s offense, averaging 13.5 points per game and shooting 40.5% from three-point range this season. His shooting ability causes defenses to extend, generating space for his teammates and opening up driving lanes for guys such as Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.
Robinson’s hefty salary may lead to trade talks, especially if the Heat aim to improve their squad by obtaining a player like Karl-Anthony Towns, who is a talented scorer and shooter. While the Heat would be hesitant to part ways with Robinson because of his shooting proficiency and floor-spacing qualities, they might consider dealing him if it means acquiring a player with similar or superior shooting ability.
Caleb Martin – Reject Player Option
Contract Status: $7,126,900 Player Option In 2024-25
2023-24 Season Statistics: 10.6 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Caleb Martin has emerged as a crucial asset for the Miami Heat, solidifying his place in their roster. Despite having a player option, it’s widely speculated that he may decline it in favor of pursuing a long-term contract, driven by his ambition to secure the best possible deal. This potential decision could present a challenge for the Heat.
The Heat’s reluctance to involve Martin in recent trade talks underscores his significance to the team’s future plans. His versatility, defensive acumen, and offensive contributions make him a valuable presence on both ends of the court.
Nevertheless, Martin’s intention to explore free agency means that the Heat will encounter competition in retaining him. If Miami doesn’t present the most attractive offer, there’s a risk of another team swooping in with a more enticing proposal, potentially resulting in Martin’s departure. Given his substantial impact on the team’s success in recent times, it’s imperative for the Heat to prioritize retaining Martin.
Kevin Love – Reject Player Option
Contract Status: $4,027,525 Player Option In 2024-25
2023-24 Season Statistics: 9.0 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Kevin Love’s time with the Miami Heat has sparked a career resurgence, particularly since last season, where he has notably contributed through rebounding and veteran experience. However, despite his on-court contributions, concerns persist regarding Love’s age and injury history, leading to speculation about his future in the league.
Given Love’s desire for stability and perhaps a longer-term contract, he might opt to decline his player option to explore opportunities in free agency. Should another team present him with a more attractive offer, whether in terms of salary or contract duration, Love could be tempted to depart from Miami.
Conversely, if the Heat offer Love a favorable contract, potentially a two-year deal that provides flexibility for both sides, he may opt to continue his tenure in Miami. Factors such as Love’s familiarity with the Heat’s system and his positive experiences with the team could weigh heavily in his decision-making process. Ultimately, the resolution of Love’s future with the Heat hinges on a balance of financial considerations, contract terms, and personal comfort within the organization.
Josh Richardson – Reject Player Option
Contract Status: $3,051,153 Player Option In 2024-25
2023-24 Season Statistics: 9.9 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG
The Miami Heat’s acquisition of Josh Richardson aimed to enhance the team’s overall versatility, with a focus on bolstering both offensive firepower and defensive capabilities. Despite Richardson’s positive impact, his future with the Heat remains uncertain. At 30 years old, Richardson still possesses significant potential for at least two more highly productive years in the NBA.
This makes him an attractive prospect for teams seeking a versatile player who can contribute effectively on both ends of the court, particularly contenders looking to fortify their rosters. Richardson’s decision to decline his player option opens the door for him to explore free agency in pursuit of a longer-term contract elsewhere. Should another team present him with an enticing offer and the opportunity to vie for a championship, Richardson may opt to depart from Miami.
Thomas Bryant – Reject Player Option
Contract Status: $2,845,342 Player Option In 2024-25
2023-24 Season Statistics: 4.5 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 0.6 APG, 0.2 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Thomas Bryant’s predicament creates a quandary for both him and potential suitors. Despite being an athletic big man with scoring skills, Bryant has struggled to find a permanent home in the NBA. His limited appearances (31) and statistical contributions (4.5 PPG, 3.1 RPG) this season may have reduced his market value.
Bryant’s choice to decline his player option demonstrates his desire to pursue other possibilities and negotiate the best deal possible in free agency. A multi-year contract with a franchise that will give him a meaningful role, such as the Phoenix Suns, may entice Bryant.
Nikola Jovic – Via Trade
Contract Status: $2,464,200 In 2024-25, $4,445,417 Team Option In 2025-26, $6,592,553 Qualifying Offer In 2026-27
2023-24 Season Statistics: 6.1 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.9 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Nikola Jovic’s situation with the Miami Heat presents a thought-provoking dilemma for the organization. As a young prospect with the potential to blossom into a star player, Jovic represents a valuable asset for the Heat’s future endeavors. However, the team is faced with the pressing need to capitalize on their championship window, particularly with Jimmy Butler’s career entering its later stages. This dilemma raises the question of whether the Heat should entertain the idea of trading Jovic for an established star player.
The Heat’s current stance of retaining Jovic underscores their confidence in his long-term potential. At just 20 years old, he possesses ample time to develop and make substantial contributions to the team over the coming years. Nonetheless, the team’s immediate aspirations for a championship might prompt them to consider bold maneuvers, including the possibility of including promising young talents like Jovic in trade discussions. This decision balances the team’s desire to secure long-term success with their urgency to compete at the highest level in the present.
Free Agents
Haywood Highsmith
2023-24 Season Statistics: 5.4 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Haywood Highsmith’s significance to the Miami Heat stems from his role as a reliable athlete and role player under Erik Spoelstra. Despite his accomplishments, Highsmith’s approaching free agency creates a hurdle for the Heat to retain his services. At 27 years old, Highsmith is in excellent position to negotiate the greatest deal on the market, maybe a multi-year contract that provides financial security and stability. Given his age and desire to maximize his earnings, Highsmith may prioritize signing with a team that provides him the most lucrative contract possible.
Dru Smith
2023-24 Season Statistics: 5.7 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Dru Smith’s minimal appearances for the Miami Heat this season indicate that he may not be a key component of the team’s present plans. With only nine appearances, it is clear that he has not been a constant contributor to the team’s rotation. Given his limited role and lack of opportunities to showcase his ability, Smith may choose to pursue other alternatives in free agency if the Heat do not keep him.
Delon Wright
2023-24 Season Statistics: 4.4 PPG, 1.8 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Delon Wright’s limited role with the Miami Heat this season, with only five games played, indicating that he has struggled to establish himself in the team’s rotation. This lack of continuous playing time suggests that he may not be a big part of the Heat’s long-term plans. Given Wright’s inability to crack the rotation and make a real impact on the court, the Heat may have little reservations in not resigning him.
Patty Mills
2023-24 Season Statistics: 4.3 PPG, 1.7 RPG, 1.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.0 BPG
Patty Mills’ minimal appearances and age of 35 may indicate that he is not a key part of the Miami Heat’s future plans. With only six appearances this season, it’s clear that he hasn’t been a regular contributor to the team’s rotation. Given Mills’ age and the Heat’s likely focus on other areas of the team, such as developing younger talent or addressing particular roster needs, they may decide not to re-sign him.
R.J. Hampton
2023-24 Season Statistics: 1.3 PPG, 0.8 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.0 SPG, 0.0 BPG
RJ Hampton’s minimal appearances with the Miami Heat, combined with his young age of 22, indicate that he is still in the early phases of his NBA career and has room to grow. However, his limited playing experience may imply that he has not yet established his role on the club. As a young player with promise, Hampton may prioritize finding a long-term home where he may get consistent playing time and opportunities to improve and develop his skills.
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