During this offseason, the Miami Heat have pulled off the biggest stunt by bagging Giannis Antetokounmpo. But the team’s hunt doesn’t stop there. Next on the agenda is creating a roster with a solid structure strong enough to take the franchise to the championship next year. And to achieve this goal, the front office is busy scouting throughout the league for some gems.
Every player linked to the Miami Heat after locking Giannis Antetokounmpo
These three players have long been on the radar of the Heat’s front office and have lots to offer. Talks of associations are being held behind closed doors, but rumors are all around.
Bradley Beal
LA Clippers guard Bradley Beal has gained the attention of Miami for a long while now. Throughout his stints with different teams, Beal has been linked to the Heat and remains a person of interest. Though health issues have cast a shadow, he could still improve their offense.
Beal is on the open market after declining his $5.6 million player option with the Clippers. The 2020-21 All-NBA player can be signed to a minimum veteran deal. But the Heat must act swiftly should they wish to secure him, as good players are being snapped up quickly.
LeBron James
After Antetokounmpo, LeBron James is undeniably the biggest catch this offseason. He might no longer be in his prime, but that hasn’t stopped the 41-year-old from currently being the most coveted player. Sitting atop the NBA hierarchy, he is being courted by many but is constantly drawn to Miami, where he holds a special place. A preferred landing spot on the player’s side, the Heat is also trying relentlessly to get him despite their low budget, as his pairing with Antetokounmpo would massively elevate their championship chances.
Max Strus
Another name associated with Miami these days is Max Strus, who played for them from 2020-23 as their shooting guard. He is currently with the Cleveland Cavaliers, James’s former team, and there are rumors they could trade Strus to clear cap space for James. Bouncing from there, he could potentially land in the Heat as the team needs shooters.
If the Cavaliers trade Max Strus soon, that could be a strong indication LeBron James is coming back, per @WindhorstESPN.
Moving Strus would allow Cleveland to increase their offer for LeBron. pic.twitter.com/KDGE7dWofF
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) July 8, 2026
Other Players’ Links That Didn’t Fare Well
Among some other names, Khris Middleton was also heavily linked to the Heat. The former teammate of Antetokounmpo was perceived as a fabulous addition to the superstar’s team in Miami, bringing established camaraderie. However, the idea failed to materialize, as the forward has returned to his former team, the Washington Wizards, on a three-year deal.
Before the Antetokounmpo trade, Ja Morant was viewed as the perfect substitute for Miami should the deal fail. And even after acquiring the superstar, Morant remained a deep interest for the Heat in the offseason. But the hefty contract that gives him $42 million next season was an eyesore for them. He was ultimately traded to the Portland Trail Blazers by the end of June. The same goes for veteran guard Mike Conley, who Miami eagerly wanted to sign after Hardaway but was recently signed by the Boston Celtics.
The Exploration Continues
So far, Tim Hardaway Jr. is the only acquisition for Miami made without a trade or a draft pick. Now the front office is actively looking for shooters, offensive players, and veterans to form an effective lineup around Bam Adebayo and Antetokounmpo.
The search for the most suitable continues, with three open spots on its roster. Perhaps they could soon lock in on Beal or James, much to the delight of fans.
Photo Credit: Rhona Wise, Imagn Images via Reuters Connect
