Heat weigh Larsson option and plot multiple offseason scenarios
heat-offseason-larsson-option-mitchell-fontecchio-giannis
After an inconsistent rookie year, Swedish wing Pelle Larsson showed marked improvement in his second season with the Miami Heat, he told reporters following the club’s elimination in the play-in tournament. “I definitely stepped up in my development,” Larsson said, crediting heavier minutes and greater trust within Miami’s new offense.
The Heat hold a $2.3 million team option on Larsson for 2026/27. Exercising it would keep him on a rookie-scale deal and set him up for restricted free agency in 2027, while also making him extension-eligible in July.
Mitchell enters contract year
Point guard Davion Mitchell, 27, is coming off a steady 2025/26 campaign and is valued highly by Miami’s coaching staff and front office. Head coach Erik Spoelstra called him “an elite on-ball defender” and “the engine” of the team’s pace. Mitchell is set to earn $12.4 million in 2026/27, the final season of his contract.
Fontecchio hopes to stay
Italian forward Simone Fontecchio, 30, will be an unrestricted free agent next month but told Sky Sport Italia he “would love to stay in Miami” after a comfortable first year with the Heat. He also confirmed plans to play for Italy during the August window of 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifying.
Giannis remains top target
According to a Miami Herald mailbag, the Heat’s primary offseason plan is to trade for Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo. Failing that, the front office would pursue another marquee player. If no major deal materializes, Miami could pivot to preserving cap space for the summer of 2027, when Antetokounmpo could reach free agency.
Lottery reform could matter
The South Florida Sun Sentinel noted that next year’s “3-2-1” draft-lottery format might influence Miami’s ability to chase Antetokounmpo this summer, depending on where the club’s pick lands.
Source: Hoops Rumors
