The Miami Heat have nearly finished reshaping their roster, and the last open spot could still go one of two ways: keep it available for flexibility later in the season, or use it on another veteran who can deepen the bench.
That decision comes after a busy offseason in Miami. The Heat landed Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis from the Milwaukee Bucks in a deal that sent out four players and picks.
They also lost Norman Powell to the Chicago Bulls in free agency, but responded with a series of additions to round out the group. Over the past week, they signed Klay Thompson and Nick Richards, brought in Tim Hardaway Jr. on a one-year deal earlier in the offseason, and also welcomed back Simone Fontecchio on a one-year deal.
If Miami chooses to fill that final slot, three veteran names stand out.
Nicolas Batum is one possibility. The 37-year-old wing is coming off a strong season with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he shot 40.4 percent from three-point range across 74 appearances.
For a team that has clearly embraced veteran depth, Batum fits the mold. He likely wouldn’t be asked to play much as the 15th man, but his shooting and experience would give the Heat another useful option if injuries hit later in the year.
Victor Oladipo is another name to watch. The 34-year-old last appeared in the NBA in 2023, though he spent this past season with the Milwaukee Bucks’ G-League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd.
Oladipo’s career has been shaped by the injury he suffered in 2018, and he has been pushing for another shot at an NBA comeback. He also has familiarity with Miami, having played for the Heat from 2021-23, and has been training in the team’s practice facilities.
If he gets back in the league, it would give him a chance to reshape the story around his career.
Kevin Love rounds out the list. At this stage, his value is less about heavy minutes and more about what he brings to a locker room and a playoff push.
Now entering his age-38 season, Love has plenty of experience from some very good teams, and he already knows Erik Spoelstra’s system from his time with the Heat from 2023-25. Like Batum, he would probably be looking at a limited role, but as a final roster piece, he would still bring something Miami can use.
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