Heat Trade Chaos Unfolds as Terry Rozier’s Legal Issues Complicate Moves
Monday marked the unofficial kickoff to the NBA trade season, a pivotal moment as December 15 is the first day when a substantial number of players become eligible for trades. This includes those who signed with new teams during the recent offseason. With the NBA trade deadline looming on February 5, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. ET, teams, including the Miami Heat, are now faced with the choice of whether to buy or sell on the market.
However, the phrase “substantial number of players” takes on a different meaning for the Heat, particularly in light of Terry Rozier’s ongoing legal troubles. His expiring contract, once seen as a valuable trade asset, now hangs in uncertainty. For the purpose of this discussion, let’s proceed with the assumption that the league allows a hypothetical trade scenario, similar to Rozier’s previous move from the Charlotte Hornets.
Players Not Going Anywhere
Bam Adebayo
Bam Adebayo remains the crown jewel of the Miami Heat. At just 28 years old, he is not only the franchise’s cornerstone but also the heart and soul of the team. Adebayo’s game is rich with intangibles; he has developed into a reliable and durable presence on the court. The decision to secure him through the 2027-28 season, complete with a $60.2 million player option for 2028-29, was an easy one. While it’s tempting to speculate whether Pat Riley might make one last grand gesture before hanging up his clipboard, Adebayo is firmly entrenched in Miami’s plans.
Jaime Jaquez Jr.
Another player unlikely to move is Jaime Jaquez Jr. His performance this season has placed him in the conversation for Most Improved Player and Sixth Man of the Year. At 24 years old, the forward has thrived in Miami’s revamped, fast-paced offense. With a rookie contract lasting through the 2027-28 season—pending the team’s extension of his $9 million option—his production is a steal in today’s intricate NBA salary landscape.
Kel’el Ware
The potential of Kel’el Ware is certainly intriguing. Although his effort can vary from game to game, much to the chagrin of head coach Erik Spoelstra, there’s a belief that the Heat can maximize his talents. The pairing of Ware with Adebayo is still a work in progress, but the team is wise to hold off on any trade discussions at this early stage in Ware’s career.
Davion Mitchell
Miami has a knack for uncovering hidden gems, and Davion Mitchell fits that mold perfectly. This season, he has stepped up, showcasing his ability to fill a starting role when needed. His cap-friendly contract only enhances his appeal as a rotation guard, making him a valuable asset to the Heat’s defensive strategy.
Dru Smith
Dru Smith, while often seen as a potential trade filler, has become a dependable figure within the Heat organization. Having weathered ups and downs with the team, he has the potential to evolve into a locker room leader akin to Miami legends like Keith Askins or Udonis Haslem.
Kasparas Jakučionis
As for Kasparas Jakučionis, moving on from a rookie who was once considered a draft steal would be premature. The Heat have the luxury of developing him at their own pace, allowing him to prove himself within Miami’s system.
Players Who Could Be On The Move
Tyler Herro
Tyler Herro remains a name frequently mentioned in trade discussions. As a core scorer who aligns with Adebayo’s age, he possesses immense talent but carries questions about his fit within the team. The whispers surrounding his potential departure have persisted for years, with the Heat opting to bypass several trade opportunities.
As the trade season unfolds, the Heat find themselves at a crossroads, navigating both the complexities of Rozier’s legal challenges and the potential for transformative moves. With the clock ticking toward the deadline, Miami’s decisions will have significant ramifications for their roster and future ambitions.
