Photo: Peter Baba

The Miami Heat are open to pursuing players who may not necessarily be superstars but are still solid contributors, particularly those on expiring contracts if they are unable to secure a major trade involving Jimmy Butler.

This strategy, as noted by Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, would allow the Heat to maintain flexibility while still bolstering their roster with competent players who can help in the short term.

In cases where these players have an extra year left on their contracts beyond the current season, Miami is likely to demand additional assets in the form of draft picks, ensuring they extract some long-term value in any potential deal.

Furthermore, Jackson emphasizes that the Heat’s long-term strategy revolves around clearing significant cap space for the 2026 offseason, a period that could see several star-level players, including the likes of Luka Doncic, hitting the free-agent market.

Miami’s current financial outlook for the 2026/27 season is promising, with only around $85 million in committed salary, allowing the team ample flexibility to make a splash in free agency.

This cap space gives the Heat a strong opportunity to pursue a maximum contract player, which could elevate the franchise to championship contention if they can secure the right talent.