Overview

• Miami re-signed Davion Mitchell to a two-year, $24 million deal to solidify their defensive identity and continuity in the backcourt.
• Norman Powell arrived via mid-July trade with the Clippers, bringing a career-best 21.8 points per game and efficient 48/42/80 shooting splits.
• All-Star Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro headline a starting lineup expected to benefit from Powell’s perimeter scoring and Mitchell’s on-ball defense.
• ESPN analyst Tim Legler projects only a marginal uptick from last season’s 37 wins, suggesting Miami still lacks an elite offensive leader.
• Miami’s front office has favored cost-controlled trades and development pieces like 2025 draftee Kasparas Jakucionis to uphold their culture and manage cap constraints.