Kel’el Ware said he focused on controlling what he could amid trade speculation, emphasizing his intent to continue playing regardless of roster moves.
“I just control what I can control. Go out there and play. If it happens it happens. If not I’m just going to continue to play. Yeah I feel like anybody would hope to stay with their current team,” Ware explained regarding his desire to remain in Miami Heat.
The 21-year-old center is in the second year of a four-year, $20.5 million rookie-scale deal, with the third-year option already exercised.
Miami was the only Eastern Conference team to remain inactive during the February 5 NBA trade deadline, ending their pursuit of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Reports indicated the Heat offered a package including key players like Bam Adebayo and future draft assets, but Milwaukee confirmed Antetokounmpo would not be traded.
Miami also explored acquiring Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant but did not pursue him aggressively, leaving the roster unchanged.
With an open roster spot and below the luxury tax threshold, the Heat could sign buyout players before March 1 to be playoff-eligible, promote two-way player Myron Gardner, or sign 10-day contracts.
Guard Terry Rozier remains a potential candidate to waive, which would free a second roster spot while keeping the team under the luxury tax line.
Ware has averaged 11.3 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game this season, contributing in 52 contests and starting 29.
The Heat currently hold a 29-27 record, sitting 8th in the Eastern Conference, navigating the remainder of the season with the current roster intact.
