Ranking The Miami Heat's Most Valuable Trade Assets

The Miami Heat had a relatively quiet offseason, which is a bit surprising given their reputation for making bold moves. Instead of chasing big names, the Heat focused on re-signing key players like Kevin Love and Haywood Highsmith while locking in Bam Adebayo with a massive three-year extension that makes him unable for a trade this season. However, Jimmy Butler's decision not to sign an extension and become a free agent in 2025 has added an element of uncertainty to the team's future. With limited cap flexibility and a roster full of potential, the Heat might need to rely on their most valuable assets if they want to stay competitive in the ever-tough Eastern Conference. Let's dive into who or what Miami could leverage if they decide to shake things up.

1. Tyler Herro - $29.0 Million Contract

 

Salary 2024-25: $29.0 Million

Salary 2025-26: $31.0 Million

Salary 2026-27: $33.0 Million

Tyler Herro continues to be one of the most intriguing assets on the Miami Heat roster. In the 2023-24 season, he put up solid numbers, averaging 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, despite being limited to just 42 games due to injuries. His ability to score from beyond the arc, where he shot 37.8%, combined with his versatility as a playmaker, makes him a valuable piece for any team looking to add a dynamic young guard.

However, Herro's recurring injuries have raised some concerns about his long-term durability, especially as the Heat aim to stay competitive in a tough Eastern Conference. With his contract escalating to $33 million by the 2026-27 season, Miami must carefully consider whether to keep him as a core player or use him as a significant trade chip.

Herro’s name has been at the center of trade rumors, especially as the Heat explore opportunities to acquire another star. His youth, scoring prowess, and potential upside make him a highly desirable asset, which could be crucial if Miami decides to pull the trigger on a blockbuster deal.

2. Terry Rozier - $24.9 Million Contract

 

Salary 2024-25: $24.9 Million

Salary 2025-26: $26.6 Million

Terry Rozier joined the Miami Heat in a mid-season trade from the Charlotte Hornets and quickly became an integral part of the team’s rotation. Known for his scoring ability, Rozier brought an immediate offensive boost, averaging 19.8 points per game during the 2023-24 season. His ability to create his own shot and facilitate for others made him a crucial piece, especially during games where Miami's other stars were either injured or underperforming.

Rozier's contract, which runs through the 2025-26 season, offers a blend of value and flexibility. While his salary is substantial, the fact that it's only a two-year commitment makes him an attractive asset in trade discussions. Teams looking for a short-term solution at the guard position, particularly one that brings playoff experience and leadership, could see Rozier as a valuable acquisition. His contract structure also gives Miami the flexibility to move him without the long-term financial commitment that might deter potential suitors.

What sets Rozier apart from other assets like Tyler Herro is his defensive capability and experience. While Herro is primarily known for his scoring, Rozier has developed a reputation for being a two-way player who can contribute on both ends of the floor. This makes him particularly valuable in scenarios where Miami might be looking to trade for a player that requires giving up a versatile and proven talent. Rozier’s blend of scoring, defense, and experience could be the key to landing another star in South Beach.

3. Duncan Robinson - $19.4 Million Contract

 

Salary 2024-25: $19.4 Million

Salary 2025-26: $19.9 Million

Duncan Robinson's role with the Miami Heat has been a rollercoaster, with fluctuating minutes and varying impact, but his shooting remains his most valuable asset. In the 2023-24 season, Robinson averaged 12.9 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. Despite seeing less playing time compared to previous years, he remained a key contributor from beyond the arc, where his ability to stretch the floor is highly valued.

Robinson’s contract, which runs through the 2025-26 season, carries a significant cap hit, making it one of the larger financial commitments on Miami’s books. However, the contract also includes an Early Termination Option (ETO) after the 2024-25 season, giving Robinson some control over his future. If he declines the option, Miami could be on the hook for nearly $20 million in the 2025-26 season, although only about half of that is fully guaranteed if the option is exercised.

What makes Robinson an interesting trade asset is his elite three-point shooting, which is a premium skill in today’s NBA. His contract, while hefty, could be appealing to teams looking for a sharpshooter to complement their stars, especially those in need of immediate perimeter scoring. On the other hand, his contract’s size and the potential for inconsistent performance make him a complex asset for Miami, balancing his on-court value against financial considerations as they explore potential trades.

4. Jaime Jaquez Jr. - $3.7 Million Contract

 

Salary 2024-25: $3.7 Million

Salary 2025-26: $3.9 Million (Team Option)

Salary 2026-27: $5.9 Million (Team Option)

Jaime Jaquez Jr., the 18th overall pick by the Miami Heat in the 2023 NBA Draft, has quickly proven his value in the league. In his rookie season, Jaquez averaged 11.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, demonstrating his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. His maturity and experience from four years at UCLA have allowed him to transition smoothly into the NBA, earning him recognition as one of the league’s top rookies.

Jaquez’s contract is incredibly team-friendly, making him an attractive asset for Miami. His salary is set at $3.7 million for the 2024-25 season, followed by a team option of $3.9 million for 2025-26 and $5.9 million for 2026-27. This structure gives the Heat significant flexibility, as they can retain a promising young player at a relatively low cost or use him as a valuable trade chip.

The combination of his low salary, high potential, and immediate impact on the court makes Jaquez a unique asset for the Heat. As Miami continues to explore ways to strengthen their roster, Jaquez’s name will likely be a focal point in any trade discussions, whether the team chooses to build around him or use his value to acquire a more established star.

 

5. Nikola Jovic - $2.4 Million Contract

 

Salary 2024-25: $2.4 Million (Team Option)

Salary 2025-26: $4.4 Million (Team Option)

Nikola Jovic, the 27th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, is a young forward with considerable upside. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 7.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while showing flashes of his potential as a versatile player. Standing 6'11", Jovic offers a unique blend of size, skill, and shooting ability, making him a valuable piece for the Miami Heat as they look to develop their young talent.

Jovic’s contract is structured with team options for the final two years, giving the Heat flexibility in deciding his future. His salary of $2.4 million for the 2024-25 season is modest, especially considering his potential to grow into a more significant role. If he continues to develop, Jovic could become a critical part of Miami's rotation or an appealing asset in trade discussions.

What makes Jovic particularly intriguing is his international experience, including his performance in the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he helped Serbia secure a bronze medal. This experience, combined with his NBA development, positions him as a player with both current value and future potential. As the Heat consider their roster moves, Jovic's combination of a manageable contract and upside makes him a key asset.

6. Kel'el Ware - $4.6 Million Contract

 

Salary 2024-25: $4.6 Million

Salary 2025-26: $4.8 Million

Salary 2026-27: $5.1 Million (Team Option)

Salary 2027-28: $7.8 Million (Team Option)

Kel'el Ware, the 15th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, has quickly made waves with the Miami Heat. The 7-foot center showcased his potential during the NBA Summer League, where he averaged 18.3 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, immediately drawing attention as one of the top rookies of his class. His combination of size, athleticism, and shot-blocking ability has already positioned him as a valuable asset for the Heat, both in the short and long term.

Ware’s rookie contract is structured over four years, with a significant salary increase in the final season, which includes a team option. His salary starts at $4.6 million in the 2024-25 season and escalates to $7.8 million by 2027-28. This contract provides Miami with flexibility while also securing a young talent who could develop into a key player for the team’s future.

The potential that Ware brings as a rim protector and rebounder makes him an essential piece in Miami’s plans, especially alongside Bam Adebayo in the frontcourt. His development will be closely watched, and if he continues on his current trajectory, Ware could become a cornerstone for the Heat or a highly sought-after asset in future trade discussions.

7. Haywood Highsmith - $5.2 Million Contract

 

Salary 2024-25: $5.2 Million

Salary 2025-26: $5.6 Million

Haywood Highsmith has become a reliable role player for the Miami Heat, known for his defensive versatility and ability to stretch the floor. After re-signing with the Heat on a two-year, $10.82 million deal in the summer of 2024, Highsmith’s contract is seen as a solid value for a player who contributes on both ends of the floor. Last season, he averaged 6.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game, while shooting an impressive 39.6% from three-point range, showing his ability to space the floor effectively.

Highsmith's contract is modest, yet his impact on the court can be significant, especially given Miami's focus on defensive intensity and floor spacing. His $5.2 million salary for the 2024-25 season and the $5.6 million for 2025-26 offer the Heat flexibility, either to keep him as part of their rotation or to include him as part of a trade package if needed.

What makes Highsmith particularly valuable is his adaptability—he can guard multiple positions and fit into various lineups. This makes him a dependable asset for Miami as they navigate the competitive Eastern Conference, and his contract structure provides the team with options moving forward.

8. Josh Richardson - $3.0 Million Contract

 

Salary 2024-25: $3.0 Million

Josh Richardson, who rejoined the Miami Heat on a two-year, $5.9 million contract in 2023, continues to be a valuable contributor to the team's rotation. The deal includes a player option for the 2024-25 season, which Richardson exercised, ensuring his return to Miami at a salary of $3.0 million for the upcoming season. Known for his defensive prowess and ability to knock down threes, Richardson has been a key role player, especially in crucial moments when the Heat rely on his versatility.

Last season, Richardson averaged 9.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, providing the Heat with a steady presence off the bench. His familiarity with the team's system, having spent the early years of his career in Miami, allows him to seamlessly integrate into different lineups and contribute on both ends of the floor. Richardson's experience and skill set make him a reliable option for head coach Erik Spoelstra, whether as a defensive stopper or a floor spacer.

While his salary is modest compared to other veterans, Richardson's ability to fill multiple roles makes him an important piece for Miami. His contract is also team-friendly, giving the Heat flexibility in managing their cap space while retaining a player who can impact games in various ways. As the Heat navigate the competitive Eastern Conference, Richardson's experience and versatility will continue to be assets that the team can rely on.