The Miami Heat, as constructed, are expected to be a dark horse in the East. While this is promising, they are still likely to face an uphill battle against some of the juggernauts in the conference.
In this regard, it is expected that the Heat may not perceive themselves as a title-contending team yet, per NBA insider Tim Bontemps. Instead, the franchise, like many other teams, may opt to make some big moves in the 2027 free agency to transform into true contenders. Bontemps explored this notion on "The Hoop Collective" podcast and said:
"I would say the Heat now are waiting to see if they can get a player that is better than Bam Adebayo. The reason I say the summer of 2027? That's when Giannis Antetokounmpo is a free agent. Nikola Jokic could be a free agent. That's when Donovan Mitchell could be a free agent. That's when a lot of these guys could be available."
"I think the Heat are probably going to sit in that space… I think this is about biding your time, rebuilding their asset base, acknowledging that, despite the fact that they had a really good five-year run, where they made the Conference Finals three times and the Finals a couple of times, they aren't really a championship-level team, and had to do some sort of reset."
Bontemps admitted that the Heat haven't resorted to tanking, unlike some other teams. But they haven't necessarily become a dominant force in the East either.
In this regard, waiting for the 2027 free agency period may be in their best interest. With some names already mentioned, we explore the best possible targets for the Heat in this time frame.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks in the first quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks in the first quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
One name that is bound to jump out in these situations is Giannis Antetokounmpo. After all the offseason trade drama involving him and the Milwaukee Bucks, there is a growing likelihood that the superstar's time with the Bucks is coming to an end.
Among the several teams Antetokounmpo was linked with this offseason, the Heat were presented as one of the favorites to land him. Given the franchise's mentality and culture, the notion of a robust talent like Antetokounmpo joining the team is certainly appealing.
Antetokounmpo remains one of the most dominant players in the league. His consistent performances continue to see him mentioned in MVP conversations. Last season was no different, as he recorded an average of 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game.
The trade rumors linking the Greek star to the Heat eventually died down, as he displayed a loyalty to the franchise, expressing his intentions to remain with the team. However, there is no guarantee about what will happen once the free agency window opens in 2027.
It is important to note that Antetokounmpo will have a $62.8 million player-option available to him for the 2027-28 season, implying that he would only become a free agent if he opts out of this deal.
Given that Andrew Wiggins and Tyler Herro are expected to be unrestricted free agents in 2027, the Heat could have the money required to pursue Antetokounmpo as well.
Donovan Mitchell
Mar 21, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) controls the ball against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Mar 21, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) controls the ball against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Another interesting candidate for the Heat to pursue in 2027 would be Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell. Although there haven't been too many trade rumors involving him, as a free agent, Miami could certainly benefit from signing him.
Mitchell's acquisition would effectively signal their rise as a superpower in the East. With Herro and Mitchell, Miami could boast one of the most dynamic and versatile starting backcourt pairings in the league.
Mitchell's partnership with Darius Garland has been noteworthy. But last season, Herro showcased what he could bring to the table. Given his skill set, there is some scope for Mitchell to be more effective next to Tyler Herro.
Last season, the Cavaliers guard was in the MVP discussion as well, finishing fifth in overall rankings. He put up an average of 24.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, while shooting 44.3% from the field and 36.8% from three-point range.
Mitchell's availability in the free agency market could be heavily dependent upon Cleveland's performance next season, along with its cap management approach.
Given that they have struggled to shed salary this offseason, the Cavs may not be able to create a better team to contend for a title for the 2026-27 season. The upcoming season could be a "win-or-bust" one, and if things go wrong, Mitchell and some of the other key players may find themselves on the way out.
Trae Young
Jan 23, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) drives to the basket against the Toronto Raptors in the second quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Jan 23, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) drives to the basket against the Toronto Raptors in the second quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young could also prove to be an intriguing target for the Heat in 2027. Given Young's current contract situation with the Hawks, there exists a possibility that he may opt out of his $48.9 million player-option to enter free agency next season. But if he doesn't, he will be an unrestricted free agent in 2027.
Signing Young could add a lot of versatility to Miami's roster. Although their defensive identity would take a hit, the 26-year-old guard would effectively transform Miami's offense.
In some ways, the four-time All-Star could be viewed as an upgrade to Herro. While doing virtually everything Herro is capable of doing, Young is a far more capable playmaker and passer, even emerging as the league's leader in assists last season.
Young has established himself as one of the best pick-and-roll playmakers in the league, often bringing out the best in the big men he is paired with. The notion of pairing Young with Bam Adebayo and Kel'el Ware may be viewed quite favorably by Miami, especially considering their athleticism.
Last season, the Hawks guard recorded an average of 24.2 points and 11.6 assists per game, while shooting 41.1% from the field and 34.0% from three-point range. Although Herro is a more efficient scorer, Young's overall impact may give him the edge in this situation.
Brandon Ingram
Nov 16, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram (14) dribbles against Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Nov 16, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram (14) dribbles against Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
One of the overlooked players in the 2027 free agency class is Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram. Given his two-way potential and overall offensive versatility, the Miami Heat could look at him as a prospective target as well.
Ingram, like many of the free agents in the 2027 class, will have a player option in the summer. Should he opt out of his $41.9 million deal, the Heat could attempt to sign him, especially considering the free cap space they will have with Wiggins coming off the books.
Ingram may not be as impactful as some of the superstars on this list, but updating his contract could help the Heat retain their core of Herro and Adebayo and form a much more formidable unit overall.
Last season, Ingram played with the New Orleans Pelicans. Although he only made 18 appearances for the team, he recorded an average of 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists, on shooting splits of 46.5% from the field and 37.4% from three-point range.
Ingram's greatest asset is his versatility and length. By slotting in next to Adebayo and Herro, he would comfortably operate in the midrange while also acting as a perimeter threat.
The Outlook For The Heat Is Promising
Although the Miami Heat do not appear to be in a position to contend for the title, the outlook for the team is certainly promising. Led by some talented young stars, the Heat could be a potent force in the future, especially if they successfully cultivate the talent they have.
Players such as Davion Mitchell and Jaime Jaquez Jr. could be impressive contributors for the team in the upcoming season. Similarly, Kel'el Ware and Nikola Jovic are also expected to make a big jump next season.
The Heat have the right assets in place. At this stage, it is only a matter of time before they emerge as a serious contender. In this regard, the addition of a superstar could act as a catalyst, or it could harm the team's trajectory.
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