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Erik Spoelstra explains the key to Andrew Wiggins making an impact for Miami Heat in 2025-26

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Pocholo Magsino | Last updated Jul 13, 2025 11:00 AM ET

Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra is looking forward to a big 2025-26 season. He believes they have the potential to do well, including Andrew Wiggins. This is different from reports that the Heat were shopping Wiggins in trade talks.

Andrew Wiggins was decent in his 17 games for the Miami Heat after the 2025 trade deadline. He averaged 17 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. Unfortunately, he had a rough postseason, as the Cleveland Cavaliers swept the Heat.

Wiggins has one year left on his contract with a player option. He is considered a good trade candidate for Miami. It looks like they explored the trade market in the 2025 offseason, but they opted not to make a deal.

Head coach Erik Spoelstra is ready to support Wiggins ahead of their return for the 2025-26 regular season. That is significant, considering many expected Wiggins not to be in Miami in the offseason.

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Wiggins could be a strong contributor to the Heat

In terms of potential and physical features, Wiggins fits in with the popular Heat Culture. He has great length with elite athleticism and strong defensive instincts. Spoelstra believes in Wiggins, which could mean he will be with the team for a long while.

Of course, Pat Riley and his front office might have different plans. However, Wiggins could be a long-term contributor to the Heat if he plays well enough. They have a good core with All-Star Tyler Herro, Bam Adebayo, and youngster Kel’el Ware.

With those players, Wiggins feels like a seamless fit due to his potential on both ends of the floor. Spoelstra can unlock him more, especially when he feels comfortable in the system.

That was evident during the Play-In Tournament game against the Chicago Bulls, which drew praise.

“Wiggs, I think as he gets comfortable. With Wiggs, so much of him is being comfortable.

“He finally got comfortable in a month. It didn’t take long. He was dynamic, but I think we’ll have leadership and establish throughout the roster,” Spoelstra said about Wiggins after Summer League practice.

A Wiggins trade could happen later down the line

Anything can change with the Heat’s front office. They are often making deals behind the scenes, which could mean Spoelstra’s commitment to Wiggins is temporary. It is an opportunity for the Canadian forward to prove himself to stay with the Heat.

If he does well, he could probably stay with the team. However, Riley could still explore trades in the market. The Heat are always looking to improve the team, and they are waiting to build around this core, including Ware.

Wiggins could be part of that core group, but he could easily be the main trade piece. Either way, the Heat will want to keep improving. The Eastern Conference will be weaker than in previous seasons due to major injuries. The Heat could capitalize on that, and they will be ready to do so.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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