Heat predicted to sign $342M 14-year veteran, 3-time All-Star to pair with Giannis Antetokounmpo

Mar 12, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives to the basket against Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (13) during the first quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Miami Heat were one of the five finalists for LeBron James this summer, and adding him to their current roster would have been a dream scenario. However, things did not work out that way this time around.

The four-time NBA champion decided to finish his career with the Philadelphia 76ers, making his decision official on Friday.

“LeBron James is signing with the Philadelphia 76ers for his final run at another NBA championship, he announced Friday,” ESPN’s Dave McMenamin wrote. “James, 41, is signing a two-year, $8 million contract with a player option, Klutch Sports Group CEO Rich Paul told ESPN's Shams Charania.”

Like other teams around the league, the Heat must now evaluate the remaining options available. One name Miami has shown interest in is Klay Thompson, who would provide the team with much-needed shooting.

“Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson, a five-time All Star and the fourth-most prolific three-point shooter in NBA history, has emerged as a player of strong interest to the Miami Heat, multiple sources said in recent days. The Heat has interest in adding Thompson whether LeBron James joins the Heat or not, a source said,” Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson wrote.

It is no secret that the Heat need more perimeter shooting. Bleacher Report’s Andrew Peters believes Miami could turn its attention toward veteran guard Bradley Beal.

“The Heat reportedly have interest in Beal, and according to Clutch Points' Brett Siegel, the interest is mutual. Miami missed out on James but still managed to trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo. Now the Heat are looking for some perimeter scoring to bolster the roster,” Peters wrote.

Beal’s biggest concern throughout his career has been his ability to stay healthy. He also has never played on a true championship contender, which could motivate him to embrace a new opportunity with Miami.

Beal has earned $342 million throughout his career. If the Heat are able to land him, it would be a major addition because he would provide the shooting and scoring needed to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo. A trio of Giannis, Bam, and Beal would create one of the most difficult lineups in the NBA to defend.

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