The Miami Heat’s 2024-25 season has been nothing short of chaotic, with the team navigating the storm of internal conflict and trade rumors. Standing at 19-17, Miami is teetering on the edge of playoff contention, but the spotlight has been firmly on Jimmy Butler.
Once the cornerstone of Heat Culture, Butler has openly clashed with team president Pat Riley, leading to public tension and a shocking seven-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team. Riley, with his old-school approach, admitted that he struggles to understand the modern player, a comment that could explain why he has alienated Butler and could be at the center of “Heat culture” getting weaker according to some.
Despite the drama, the Heat’s identity remains intact as Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro have steered the ship well so far. The team is still driven by its relentless work ethic and competitive fire, but with Butler’s future uncertain, Miami faces critical decisions about its roster. Beyond Butler, several key players could be on the move via trade or free agency before the 2025 offseason. Here’s a closer look at the eight Heat players whose time in South Beach may be coming to an end.
Jimmy Butler
Jimmy Butler’s fractured relationship with the Miami Heat has reached a breaking point. Averaging 17.6 PPG, 5.5 RPG, and 4.7 APG this season, Butler (who has a $50.2 million player option next season) remains one of the league’s most impactful two-way players. However, his insistence on a max extension and his public frustration with Pat Riley have created an untenable situation. Butler has even stated that he no longer feels “joy” playing in Miami, leading to his suspension and cementing the idea that the partnership has run its course.
The Heat may look to trade Butler before losing him for nothing in free agency. Potential suitors include the Warriors, Lakers, Suns, and Spurs, all of whom could use Butler’s leadership and playoff pedigree. The question is: which destination is the most feasible?
The Warriors might be out of the Butler race, but there could be a package they might consider. Meanwhile, the Lakers would love to have Butler, but it would require some very stiff negotiating from both parties.
The Phoenix Suns have been the team most likely to acquire Butler because of their apparent willingness to pay him max dollars, but they might be in the most complicated scenario to get a deal done. Don’t discount the Spurs as a dark horse who could go after Butler for the right trade package.
Even if the trade market for Butler isn’t great right now, a trade could nonetheless net Miami valuable assets to retool around Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro. However, if no deal materializes, Butler could walk in 2025, leaving a gaping hole in the Heat’s roster. Either way, Butler’s days in Miami appear numbered.
Terry Rozier
Terry Rozier, acquired in a trade last season with a $26.6 million team option for next season, has shown flashes of offensive capability, averaging 12.1 PPG and 4.1 RPG this season. While his shot creation and tenacity align with Miami’s ethos, Rozier’s contract and fit alongside Herro make him a likely trade chip. With the Heat exploring ways to upgrade their roster, Rozier could be packaged in a deal for a more impactful star or young assets.
Rozier’s value on the market is boosted by his ability to perform in clutch situations and his experience as a starter in the league. Teams in need of a scoring guard or veteran presence could be interested in adding Rozier. While his time in Miami may be short-lived so far, Rozier’s contributions have kept the Heat competitive during a tumultuous season.
Duncan Robinson
Duncan Robinson’s resurgence has been one of the few bright spots for the Heat this season. Averaging 11.2 PPG while shooting 38.6% from three, Robinson has reminded everyone why Miami gave him a lucrative contract in 2021. However, his defensive limitations and hefty salary ($19.4 million this season with a $19.9 million player option next season) make him a prime trade candidate for a team looking to shed salary or acquire defensive reinforcements.
The Heat could use Robinson’s contract as part of a package for a star, especially if teams are willing to overlook his one-dimensional skill set. Robinson’s shooting is still highly coveted, particularly for playoff teams like the Mavericks, who need spacing. Miami has depth on the wing, making Robinson expendable despite his strong shooting.
Kevin Love
Kevin Love’s veteran presence has been invaluable for the Heat, but his production has taken a step back this season. Averaging a career-low 5.9 PPG and 4.5 RPG, the 36-year-old Love has become more of a rotational piece than a game-changer. With his expiring contract and the Heat needing to add younger, more athletic players, Love could be moved at the deadline.
Teams looking for a stretch big with championship experience could find value in Love, particularly contenders like the Bucks or Celtics. While Love has embraced his role in Miami, his fit with the team’s long-term plans is questionable. A trade could benefit both sides, allowing Love ($3,850,000 this season and $4,150,000 next season) to chase another title while giving the Heat more flexibility to use his salary for a deal.
Haywood Highsmith
Haywood Highsmith has carved out a niche as a gritty defender and energy player, averaging 6.9 PPG and 3.4 RPG this season. While he embodies Heat Culture, his limited offensive upside makes him expendable if Miami is looking to sweeten trade packages. Highsmith’s team-friendly contract ($5,616,000 next season) and defensive versatility make him an attractive piece for teams looking to bolster their bench.
If Miami pursues a star or high-upside player, Highsmith could be included to balance salaries or add value to the deal. While he’s been a solid contributor, Highsmith’s role can be replaced by younger players or free agents, making his future with the Heat uncertain.
Jaime Jaquez Jr.
Jaime Jaquez Jr. has shown flashes of potential in his rookie season, averaging 9.1 PPG and 4.8 RPG in limited minutes. His size, basketball IQ, and defensive potential make him an intriguing prospect, but Miami’s urgency to compete now could lead to his inclusion in a trade package. Jaquez is the type of young player rebuilding teams covet, making him a valuable asset.
If the Heat pursue a star like De’Aaron Fox or Zion Williamson, Jaquez ($3,861,600 next season) could be a key piece in convincing teams to part with their franchise players. While Miami values Jaquez’s upside, the franchise’s win-now mentality may outweigh their patience for development.
Josh Richardson
Josh Richardson’s return to Miami has been somewhat productive, with the veteran guard averaging 4.0 PPG this season over eight appearances as he deals with nagging health issues. However, his expiring contract ($3.1 million this season) and Miami’s need for roster upgrades make him a likely trade candidate. Richardson’s ability to guard multiple positions and knock down timely shots makes him a valuable piece for contenders.
If not traded, Richardson could leave in free agency, as the Heat may not prioritize re-signing him with limited cap space. Teams like the Clippers or Sixers could target Richardson for his versatility, ensuring his time in Miami doesn’t extend past this season.
Alec Burks
Alec Burks has been a steady scoring option off the bench, averaging 6.3 PPG on 44.2% shooting. While his shot creation and experience have been useful, his expiring contract ($3.3 million this season) and limited role make him expendable. Miami could include Burks in a trade to balance salaries or add depth to a contending team.
Burks’ skill set appeals to playoff teams needing a bench scorer, such as the Nuggets or Kings. With Miami focusing on younger talent and high-impact players, Burks’ time with the Heat is likely a short-term arrangement.
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