2014 first overall pick Andrew Wiggins will be rejoining the Miami Heat after opting into his player option for the 2026-27 NBA season. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Miami Heat and Wiggins have also struck a deal to keep the 31-year-old in Miami through the 2028-29 season. This will keep the forward out of free agency, as Wiggins made his decision right before the deadline.
Andrew Wiggins Opts Into Contract And Gets Extended In Miami
The 12-year pro experienced one of his most effective seasons in the NBA. Last season was the forward’s first full season with the Heat. In 68 games with Miami, Wiggins averaged 15.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists, along with a block and a steal per game. He shot a near career-high from the field and a career-high from three, breaking 40% for the first time in his career.
One of the Heat’s most reliable scorers will be heading back to Miami to play alongside new Heat members Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis, who were acquired via a blockbuster trade just over a week ago. While Miami gave up a haul for the two-time NBA MVP, keeping Wiggins secures another contributor for Miami’s postseason push.
With Norman Powell entering free agency, Miami retaining Wiggins is crucial if the Heat plan to compete in Antetokounmpo’s first season with the team. In turn, this also means Powell will almost certainly not be returning to Miami after earning his first All-Star appearance and a career-best season for the Heat. Wiggins will most likely be returning to the starting lineup and will become the third option behind the 10-time NBA All-Star and three-time NBA All-Star Bam Adebayo.
Opt-In + New Deal
Wiggins opted in for his final year on his current deal, worth $30.2 million for the 2026-27 season. Additionally, the 2014-15 Rookie of the Year will also be signing an additional two-year, $34 million deal that gives Wiggins yet another player option. Meaning, the forward could be in Miami for another three seasons.
Miami has around $10 million to sign players headed into free agency after the slight restructuring of Wiggins’ contract. With up to five roster spots remaining, Miami will need to get creative. They are in desperate need of perimeter shooting after the trade, but don’t have a lot of money to do so.
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