The Miami Heat are already preparing for what could be one of the most stacked free-agent classes in NBA history. According to ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, the Heat are planning for the 2027 offseason, when several of the game’s biggest stars could become available.
“Sources say the Heat, like many other teams around the league, are planning for that aforementioned 2027 free-agent class,” Bontemps reported. “Will Jokic, Antetokounmpo, Mitchell, and Davis all hit unrestricted free agency that summer? It’s unlikely. Whether they do or not, several other star names could join them, including Stephen Curry, Karl-Anthony Towns, Kawhi Leonard, Trae Young, Zach LaVine, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving.”
While it’s still a few years away, front offices across the league are already positioning themselves for flexibility. With so many high-level players potentially hitting the market, the summer of 2027 could reshape the NBA landscape entirely. Those who can’t keep up will be left behind, forever haunted by missed opportunities.
For the Heat, who pride themselves on attracting elite talent, it’s a chance to reload and reopen their championship window. With Butler gone and Bam Adebayo desperate for help, there’s a vacancy in Miami that needs to be filled. The question is, who will the Heat acquire that’s worth waiting for?
Giannis Antetokounmpo (two-time MVP) is the most obvious name, and rumors indicate his time in Milwaukee may be nearing its end. As his loyalty gets tested like never before, his desire for a bigger market and winning situation may lure him to the Heat, a franchise notorious for its success.
Another major name is Nikola Jokic. While he has shown no indication of wanting out of Denver, the one-time NBA champion may opt to place his trust in Pat Riley, who has helped other superstars (LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Shaquille O’Neal) win titles before.
Arguably, the best fit for the Heat would be Trae Young. While he might not be the best player available, his specialty as a shooter and playmaker would mix well with their current roster of mostly two-way role players.
Ultimately, the Miami Heat have decided to play the long game. Without a top-tier alpha star to lead them, the franchise has looked to the future instead, developing a plan that will make them relevant again.
As usual, it involves signing one of the biggest names available, but the Heat are uniquely gifted at attracting talent. If they play their cards right, it may not be long before they are back in the NBA Finals. Until then, the Heat have to be patient and avoid any moves that might jeopardize their flexibility. Finding a leading star is the last piece of the puzzle for this team, and Pat Riley is willing to wait as long as it takes to ensure his next big signing.
In the end, things may get worse for the Heat before they get better. With the 2027 free-agent class shaping up to be historic, however, Miami’s patience could pay off in the biggest way possible: with another superstar era in South Beach.
