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MIAMI, Fla. – What’s the Miami Heat’s next move after missing out on LeBron James?
Several names have been linked, including DeMar DeRozan, Russell Westbrook, Bradley Beal, and Klay Thompson, who would need a buyout to get done first. It’s been over two weeks since the Heat’s last transaction – re-signing center Vladislav Goldin to a two-way contract – and another former All-Star has emerged.
Zach LaVine could be another buyout option worth exploring. This past summer, he exercised a player option for the 2026-27 season worth up to $48.97 million to stay with the Sacramento Kings. Given the organization’s steady decline, it would make sense for both parties to split. The Kings could waive-and-stretch LaVine’s salary and he could explore the free-agency market.
Last season, the 31-year-old averaged 19.2 points on 47.9 percent shooting, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 39 games (37 starts). On Dec. 6, 2025, LaVine scored a season-high 42 points against the Heat, including eight three-pointers made. The two-time All-Star is a proven scorer but a defensive liability.
However, if LaVine were to join the Heat, he’d be surrounded by several prolific defenders – Bam Adebayo, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Davion Mitchell, and Bobby Portis Jr.
The 12-year veteran can space the floor, as he shot 39 percent from behind the arc last season.
Although LaVine might be an intriguing addition to the roster, the Heat have other options that should rank above him. Beal and Westbrook are still available – both of whom can facilitate. Plus, President Pat Riley alluded to adding another center. Nick Richards, Kevin Love, and Bismack Biyombo are available.
Also, if LaVine were to join the Heat, it could be under a veteran minimum contract and likely a reserve role. The alternative would be for him to take the full salary and likely play little time on the court. According to Kings reporter James Ham, LaVine wasn’t promised a role for the upcoming season.
The Heat have three roster spots available, all of which will likely be occupied by veterans signing minimum deals. LaVine is in a similar situation to Thompson; a buyout needs to be finalized first before the Heat can decide which step to take next. Training camp is approaching and the roster still needs tinkering.
After acquiring former Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade, the Heat are going all in to compete for an NBA Championship. The next couple of signings could impact the team’s chances – for better or worse.
Continue reading...
Several names have been linked, including DeMar DeRozan, Russell Westbrook, Bradley Beal, and Klay Thompson, who would need a buyout to get done first. It’s been over two weeks since the Heat’s last transaction – re-signing center Vladislav Goldin to a two-way contract – and another former All-Star has emerged.
Zach LaVine could be another buyout option worth exploring. This past summer, he exercised a player option for the 2026-27 season worth up to $48.97 million to stay with the Sacramento Kings. Given the organization’s steady decline, it would make sense for both parties to split. The Kings could waive-and-stretch LaVine’s salary and he could explore the free-agency market.
Last season, the 31-year-old averaged 19.2 points on 47.9 percent shooting, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 39 games (37 starts). On Dec. 6, 2025, LaVine scored a season-high 42 points against the Heat, including eight three-pointers made. The two-time All-Star is a proven scorer but a defensive liability.
However, if LaVine were to join the Heat, he’d be surrounded by several prolific defenders – Bam Adebayo, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Davion Mitchell, and Bobby Portis Jr.
The 12-year veteran can space the floor, as he shot 39 percent from behind the arc last season.
Although LaVine might be an intriguing addition to the roster, the Heat have other options that should rank above him. Beal and Westbrook are still available – both of whom can facilitate. Plus, President Pat Riley alluded to adding another center. Nick Richards, Kevin Love, and Bismack Biyombo are available.
Also, if LaVine were to join the Heat, it could be under a veteran minimum contract and likely a reserve role. The alternative would be for him to take the full salary and likely play little time on the court. According to Kings reporter James Ham, LaVine wasn’t promised a role for the upcoming season.
The Heat have three roster spots available, all of which will likely be occupied by veterans signing minimum deals. LaVine is in a similar situation to Thompson; a buyout needs to be finalized first before the Heat can decide which step to take next. Training camp is approaching and the roster still needs tinkering.
After acquiring former Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade, the Heat are going all in to compete for an NBA Championship. The next couple of signings could impact the team’s chances – for better or worse.
Continue reading...
