The Miami Heat head into the summer after a play-in exit, armed with multiple roster mechanisms despite the absence of traditional cap space.
Cap outlook and trade capital
According to Yossi Gozlan’s offseason breakdown for The Third Apron, Miami already has 13 contracts in place—including the projected No. 13 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft—and therefore is unlikely to create room under the cap. Even so, the club can still deal up to four future first-round selections, positioning itself for a potential consolidation trade.
Mid-level exception targets
Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reports that the Heat will control the full $15.1 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception (MLE). Jackson lists guards and wings CJ McCollum, Ayo Dosunmu and Quentin Grimes as possible uses for that tool. Front-court help is also on the radar, with Rui Hachimura, Kristaps Porzingis and John Collins mentioned as power-forward options if Miami deploys the MLE in that direction.
Wiggins’ looming decision
How aggressively Miami can spend may hinge on Andrew Wiggins. The 31-year-old forward has until June 29 to exercise his $30.2 million player option—or until June 30 to decline it and negotiate a new deal. Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel notes that picking up the option could simplify Miami’s pursuit of a star trade. “I’m not sure yet,” Wiggins said about his plans. “I’m going to see what’s going on and talk to my agent. Obviously, I love Miami.”
Jaquez finds footing in Year 3
Jaime Jaquez Jr. did not capture Sixth Man of the Year honors, yet his versatile 2025-26 campaign left the third-year swingman encouraged. “I feel a lot more confident,” Jaquez told the Miami Herald. “I feel like I really belong in this league … and going forward, continue to stay ambitious, continue to strive for more.”
Jovic urged to reset mindset
Nikola Jovic, who recently signed an extension, has voiced frustration over his inconsistent role. Head coach Erik Spoelstra said the 6’10” forward must “get out of his head and out of his own way,” emphasizing that Jovic should avoid a “victim mindset” and focus on off-season improvement. Former teammate Duncan Robinson has been a sounding board for the 23-year-old as he navigates expectations.
The Heat begin the summer with one first-round pick, a full MLE and a handful of movable contracts—tools that could reshape the roster before training camp opens in the fall.
Source: Hoops Rumors
