The Miami Heat have made two Finals appearances in four seasons led by Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, but they might have to make changes this summer if they do not win a championship. With Jimmy Butler approaching 35 years old, time is running out for the Heat to win a title and a potential Big Three could be created as a result.
- Tyler Herro – Via Trade
- Terry Rozier – Via Trade
- Duncan Robinson – Via Trade
- Caleb Martin – Reject Player Option
- Kevin Love – Reject Player Option
- Josh Richardson – Reject Player Option
- Thomas Bryant – Reject Player Option
- Nikola Jovic – Via Trade
- Free Agents
- Haywood Highsmith
- Dru Smith
- Delon Wright
- Patty Mills
- R.J. Hampton
The Heat could lose up to 13 players this summer, and that list could include key contributors such as Tyler Herro who has performed well this season, averaging 20.8 PPG, for a chance to create a dominant side 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 undoubtedly one of the most promising young talents in the league and his absence during the 2023 Finals was certainly felt by the Heat. Despite being arguably the most talented offensive player on the team, the Heat might consider trading Herro for a third All-Star player to complement Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, potentially forming a formidable Big Three.
One potential target for the Heat could be Donovan Mitchell, a dynamic shooting guard known for his scoring ability and leadership on the court. Mitchell’s addition could provide the Heat with another scoring threat and playmaker alongside Butler and Adebayo.
Alternatively, Trae Young could be another available star if the Atlanta Hawks decide to undergo a roster rebuild. Young is an electrifying point guard with exceptional scoring and passing skills, which could significantly bolster the Heat’s backcourt.
Other potential trade targets for the Heat include DeMar DeRozan (sign and trade) and Zach LaVine, both of whom are established scorers in the league. DeRozan brings a wealth of experience and versatility on offense, while LaVine is known for his elite athleticism and scoring ability.
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
Terry Rozier’s acquisition before the trade deadline this season was a strategic move by the Heat management. His style of play, characterized by toughness and strong defense, aligns well with the Heat culture. However, given the Heat’s potential pursuit of All-Star players like Donovan Mitchell, Trae Young, or Zach LaVine, Rozier could be included in trade packages to match salary requirements.
Rozier’s two-way play, highlighted by his defensive tenacity and scoring ability, makes him an attractive asset in trade negotiations. His versatility as a combo guard adds depth to any roster, making him a desirable target for teams looking to bolster their backcourt. While parting ways with Rozier would be a tough decision for the Heat, especially considering his fit within the team’s culture, it might be a necessary step to acquire the talent needed to compete 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’s offensive output, averaging 13.5 points per game while shooting 40.5% from three-point range, underscores his importance to the Heat’s offense this season. His shooting threat forces defenses to extend, creating spacing for his teammates and opening up driving lanes for players like Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.
However, Robinson’s relatively high salary might make him a candidate for trade discussions, especially if the Heat are pursuing significant roster upgrades such as acquiring a player like Karl-Anthony Towns, who also excels as a scorer and shooter. While the Heat would be reluctant to part ways with Robinson due to his shooting prowess and floor-spacing abilities, they might consider trading him if it means securing a player of similar or greater shooting caliber.
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’s emergence as a valuable asset for the Miami Heat has made him a key piece of their roster. Despite his player option, there’s a strong likelihood that he will reject it to pursue a long-term deal, given his desire to secure the best possible contract, which could potentially pose a risk for the Heat.
The Heat’s reluctance to include Martin in recent trade discussions underscores his importance to the team’s future plans. His versatility, defensive prowess and ability to contribute offensively make him a valuable contributor on both ends of the floor.
However, Martin’s decision to explore his options in free agency means that the Heat will face competition in retaining him. If Miami doesn’t offer the most lucrative deal, there’s a possibility that another team could swoop in with a more enticing offer, potentially leading to Martin’s departure. For the Heat, retaining Martin should be a priority, given his impact on the team’s success in recent seasons.
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 tenure with the Miami Heat has provided a resurgence to his career since last season, as he has been able to provide rebounding and experience. Despite his contributions, Love’s age and injury history have led to speculation about his future in the league. Given Love’s desire for stability and potentially a longer-term deal, he may opt to reject his player option to explore his options in free agency.
If another team offers him a more enticing offer, whether in terms of salary or contract length, Love might be inclined to leave Miami. However, if the Heat present Love with a suitable contract, potentially a two-year deal that provides both parties with flexibility, he may opt to remain in Miami. Love’s familiarity with the Heat’s system and his positive experiences with the team could influence his decision to stay.
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
Josh Richardson’s addition to the Miami Heat was aimed at bolstering the team’s two-way capabilities, providing both scoring and defensive prowess. However, despite his contributions, Richardson’s future with the Heat is not guaranteed. At 30 years old, Richardson still has at least two more very productive years ahead of him in the NBA.
This makes him a potential target for teams in need of a versatile player who can shoot and defend effectively, especially contenders looking to add depth to their rosters. Richardson’s decision to reject his player option opens up the possibility of him exploring free agency to secure a longer-term deal elsewhere. If another team offers him a lucrative contract and the opportunity to contend for a championship, Richardson may opt to leave 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 situation presents a conundrum for both himself and potential suitors. Despite being an athletic big man with scoring ability, Bryant has struggled to secure a long-term home in the NBA. His limited appearances (31) and negligible statistical contributions (4.5 PPG, 3.1 RPG) this season may have diminished his value on the market.
Bryant’s decision to reject his player option indicates his desire to explore other opportunities and secure the best possible deal in free agency. A multi-year contract with a team that offers him a significant role could be enticing for Bryant, such as the Phoenix Suns, who could potentially lure the big man.
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 an intriguing dilemma for the organization. As a young prospect with the potential to develop into a star player, Jovic represents a valuable asset for the Heat’s future. However, given the team’s urgency to maximize their championship window with Jimmy Butler approaching the latter stages of his career, they may consider sacrificing Jovic in trade discussions for an established star player.
The Heat’s decision to hold onto Jovic thus far reflects their belief in his long-term potential. At just 20 years old, he has ample time to grow and contribute significantly to the team in the years to come. However, the team’s immediate championship aspirations might necessitate bold moves, including the inclusion of young prospects like Jovic in trade packages.
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 role as a solid athlete and trusted role player under Erik Spoelstra highlights his value to the Miami Heat. However, despite his contributions, Highsmith’s impending free agency presents a challenge for the Heat in retaining his services. At 27 years old, Highsmith is in a prime position to secure the best possible deal on the market, potentially a multi-year contract that offers financial security and stability. Given his age and desire to maximize his earnings, Highsmith may prioritize signing with a team that offers him the most lucrative deal available.
Dru Smith
2023-24 Season Statistics: 5.7 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Dru Smith’s limited appearances for the Miami Heat this season suggest that he may not be a significant part of their current plans. With only nine appearances, it’s evident that he hasn’t been a consistent contributor to the team’s rotation. Given his limited role and lack of opportunity to showcase his abilities, Smith may opt to explore other options in free agency if the Heat decide not to retain 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, appearing in only five games this season, suggests that he has struggled to secure a spot in the team’s rotation. This lack of consistent playing time indicates that he may not be a significant part of the Heat’s plans moving forward. Given his inability to crack the rotation and make a meaningful impact on the court, the Heat may have little hesitation in not re-signing Wright.
Patty Mills
2023-24 Season Statistics: 4.3 PPG, 1.7 RPG, 1.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.0 BPG
Patty Mills’ limited appearances and his age of 35 years old may suggest that he is not a focal point of the Miami Heat’s future plans. With only six appearances this season, it’s apparent that he hasn’t been a consistent contributor to the team’s rotation. Given his age and the Heat’s potential focus on other areas of the team, such as developing younger talent or addressing specific roster needs, they may opt not to re-sign Mills.
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 limited appearances for the Miami Heat, coupled with his young age of 22, suggest that he is still in the early stages of his NBA career and has potential for development. However, his restricted playing time may indicate that he hasn’t yet solidified his role within the team. As a young player with potential, Hampton may prioritize finding a long-term home where he can secure consistent playing time and opportunities to grow and develop his skills.
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