Miami Heat’s Prospective Starting Five for the 2025-26 NBA Season

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August 18, 2025

Miami, Florida – The Miami Heat are embarking on a period of substantial roster adjustments as they strive to reclaim a prominent position in the National Basketball Association. Following a challenging 2023-24 season which concluded with an eighth-place finish in the Eastern Conference and a first-round playoff exit against the Cleveland cavaliers, the organization has been proactive in reshaping its team composition.

Key Player Departures and Acquisitions

The Heat have confirmed the departures of four players who contributed to the previous season’s roster. Duncan Robinson, known for his prolific three-point shooting, has been traded to the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Simone Fontecchio. This move signals a strategic shift in the Heat’s offensive approach, potentially prioritizing different skillsets in the backcourt.

Further changes came with a three-team trade that saw Norman powell join the Heat from the Los Angeles Clippers. In this transaction, Kevin Love and Kyle Anderson were sent to the Utah Jazz. This trade provides the Heat with a dynamic scoring option in Powell,who boasts a proven track record of offensive versatility.

Recently, Haywood Highsmith was traded to the Brooklyn Nets, along with a second-round draft pick in 2032, in exchange for a second-round pick in the 2026 draft. this move allows the Heat to secure future draft capital while potentially freeing up roster space for emerging talent.

New Additions Bolster the Team

Alongside the departures, the Heat have also made several key additions to thier roster. Davion Mitchell, acquired from the Toronto Raptors in February, will remain with the team. The Heat also welcomed Kaspar Jakučionis, selected in the recent draft, and Vladislav Goldin, who signed a two-way contract following the draft.These additions inject youth and potential into the Heat’s lineup.

Here’s a snapshot of the recent Heat roster activity:

Departures	Arrivals
Duncan Robinson (to detroit Pistons)	Simone Fontecchio (from Detroit pistons)
kevin Love (to Utah Jazz)	Norman Powell (from los Angeles Clippers)
Kyle Anderson (to utah Jazz)	Davion Mitchell (remains with team)
Haywood Highsmith (to Brooklyn Nets)	Kaspar Jakučionis (drafted)
	Vladislav Goldin (signed two-way contract)

Projected Starting Lineup and Salary Overview

Looking ahead to the 2025-26 season, the Heat’s projected starting lineup features Tyler Herro at point guard, Norman Powell at shooting guard, Andrew Wiggins at small forward, Bam Adebayo at power forward, and Kel’el Ware at center.

Here’s a look at the team’s current salary commitments:

• Bam Adebayo: $37.1 million
• Tyler Herro: $31 million
• Andrew Wiggins: $28.2 million
• Terry Rozier: $24.9 million
• Norman Powell: $20.5 million
• Davion Mitchell: $11.5 million (estimated)
• Simone Fontecchio: $8.3 million
• Nikola Jovic: $4.4 million
• Kel’el Ware: $4.4 million
• Jaime Jaquez Jr.: $3.9 million
• Kaspar Jakučionis: $3.7 million
• Larsson Leather: $978,000
• Keshad johnson: $2 million

The Heat’s rotation will also include players like Terry Rozier, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola jovic, Kaspar Jakucionis, Simone Fontecchio, Larsson Leather, and Keshad Johnson, providing Coach Spoelstra with various options.

The Evolving NBA landscape

The NBA continues to undergo rapid evolution, with teams constantly adjusting strategies and player development programs. The growing emphasis on three-point shooting, versatility, and player health are driving forces behind these changes. Teams prioritizing player development and data analytics are increasingly competitive. According to a report by ESPN in July 2025, teams are investing record amounts in sports science and player performance technology.

Did You No? The average NBA team payroll has increased by 15% in the last three years, reflecting the league’s rising revenues and competitive intensity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Miami Heat’s primary goal for the 2025-26 season?

The Miami Heat’s primary goal is to improve upon their 2023-24 playoff performance and contend for a championship.

Who is the newest addition to the Miami Heat’s roster?

Vladislav Goldin is the latest player to join the Heat, signing a two-way contract after going undrafted in 2025.

What impact is Norman Powell expected to have on the Heat?

Norman Powell is anticipated to provide a significant offensive boost with his scoring ability and experience.

How does the departure of Duncan Robinson affect the Heat’s three-point shooting?

The Heat will need to adapt their offensive strategy to compensate for Robinson’s departure, potentially relying on other players to increase their three-point production.

what is a two-way contract in the NBA?

A two-way contract allows a player to play for both an NBA team and its G League affiliate.

Will the Heat’s new roster configuration translate into improved performance on the court? How will the team’s young players develop under Coach Spoelstra’s guidance?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

How might the Heat balance developing young players with the win-now expectations surrounding Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo?

Point Guard: Kyle Lowry or a Trade Target?

The biggest question mark for the Miami Heat heading into the 2025-26 season revolves around the point guard position. While Kyle Lowry remains under contract, his performance in recent seasons has been inconsistent. Expect the Heat to explore options to upgrade this spot, possibly through a trade or free agency.

Potential Trade Targets: Trae Young (Atlanta Hawks), De’Aaron Fox (Sacramento kings) – though acquiring either would require significant assets.

Internal Options: If no significant move is made, expect a continued reliance on Lowry, with increased minutes for potential growth players like Jaime Jaquez Jr.handling some ball-handling duties. the Heat’s system isn’t entirely point-guard dependent, prioritizing player movement and spacing.

Key Skills Needed: Playmaking, three-point shooting, and defensive tenacity are crucial for a Heat point guard. The ideal candidate must excel in a fast-paced, team-oriented offense.

Shooting Guard: Tyler Herro – The Key to Offensive Flow

Tyler Herro’s role is pivotal. After a trade request in the past, Herro’s continued development and integration into the Heat’s system are paramount. His ability to score, both off the dribble and as a spot-up shooter, is essential.

offensive Responsibilities: Herro needs to consistently be a 20+ point per game scorer, while also improving his playmaking and defensive effort.

Herro’s Impact on Spacing: His shooting gravity opens up the floor for Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo,creating driving lanes and opportunities for others.

Potential for Growth: Focusing on defensive consistency and reducing turnovers will be key for Herro to reach his full potential and solidify his place as a long-term Heat cornerstone.

Small Forward: Jimmy Butler – The Heat’s Engine

Jimmy Butler remains the undisputed leader and primary offensive weapon for the Miami Heat.His ability to score in isolation, create for others, and defend at an elite level makes him irreplaceable.

Butler’s Versatility: He can play multiple positions,making him a matchup nightmare for opponents.

Leadership & Clutch Performance: Butler’s leadership and ability to perform in clutch moments are invaluable. His playoff performances consistently elevate his game.

Offensive Load Management: The Heat will need to carefully manage butler’s workload throughout the regular season to ensure he’s fresh for the playoffs. This might involve strategic rest days and limiting his minutes in certain games.

Power Forward: Kevin Love – Veteran Presence & shooting

kevin Love, re-signed on a team-kind deal, provides a valuable veteran presence and floor-spacing ability. While not the player he once was, Love’s shooting and basketball IQ are still significant assets.

Spacing the Floor: Love’s three-point shooting is crucial for creating driving lanes for Butler and Adebayo.

Mentorship Role: He provides valuable mentorship to younger players on the roster.

Defensive Limitations: Love’s defensive limitations will require the Heat to strategically deploy him in matchups where his weaknesses are less exposed.

Center: Bam Adebayo – Defensive Anchor & Offensive Hub

Bam Adebayo is the heart and soul of the Miami Heat. His elite defense, rebounding, and improving offensive game make him a true All-Star.

Defensive Impact: Adebayo is a dominant rim protector and versatile defender, capable of guarding multiple positions.

Offensive Evolution: He’s continually expanding his offensive repertoire, developing his post game and three-point shot.

Pick-and-Roll Synergy: His pick-and-roll chemistry with Butler and Herro is a cornerstone of the Heat’s offense. Expect continued refinement of this dynamic.

Rebounding Consistency: Maintaining a high rebounding rate is crucial for controlling the boards and initiating fast breaks.

Bench Depth & Rotation Considerations

Beyond the starting five, the Heat’s success will depend on the contributions of their bench.

Key Bench Players: Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola Jovic, Caleb Martin, and potentially a veteran addition via free agency.

Rotation Strategy: Erik Spoelstra is known for his creative rotations, utilizing different lineups based on matchups and game situations.

Developing Young Talent: The Heat will prioritize developing their young players, giving them opportunities to contribute and gain experiance.

The Impact of Potential Free Agency & Trades

The Heat are consistently linked to potential free agent and trade targets.

Priority Needs: Upgrading the point guard position and adding another reliable shooter are the Heat’s primary needs.

Cap Space Versatility: the heat have some cap space flexibility, but will likely rely on trades and sign-and-trades to acquire significant talent.

Asset Management: Pat Riley and the Heat’s front office are known for their shrewd asset management, always looking for ways to improve the roster without sacrificing long-term flexibility.