Heat Announce Bam Adebayo Decision Before Lakers Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Hudson | Last updated Mar 19, 2026 2:07 PM ET

The Miami Heat are fighting to stay out of the play-in tournament, currently sitting 7th in the Eastern Conference, in a tight race with two other teams and just one game back from the 5th seed. While they’ve been fairly average, they’ve still exceeded expectations, helped in part by the February 2025 trade that brought Andrew Wiggins to Miami.

Injuries, however, have limited their rise. Bam Adebayo recently missed a game against the Hornets with right calf tightness but is listed as probable (h/t Marc J. Spears of Andscape/ESPN). He has also dealt with several injuries throughout his career, including a thumb tear in 2021, a hip issue in 2023, a neck strain during the 2020 Finals, and a toe sprain in 2025.

Heat say Andrew Wiggins (toe) has been ruled of tonight's game vs the Lakers.

Jaime Jaquez, Jr. (left hip tightness) is listed as questionable.

Bam Adebayo (calf) is listed as probable.
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) March 19, 2026

Even with injuries, Adebayo has been outstanding for the Miami Heat this season. On March 10, 2026, he delivered a historic performance, scoring 83 points and surpassing Kobe Bryant’s long-standing record, stunning fans during a Tuesday night game against the Washington Wizards.

Through 60 games, Adebayo is averaging 20.0 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists while shooting 44.4% from the field and 32.3% from three-point range. His versatility allows him to guard all five positions, and his athleticism and energy help fuel Miami’s offense in transition.

He has also received strong support from Tyler Herro and Norman Powell when healthy. Powell, in particular, has been highly efficient, averaging 22.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.6 assists while shooting 47.2% from the field and 38.6% from beyond the arc across 51 games.

Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (13), guard Norman Powell (24) and guard Tyler Herro (14) get back on defense against the Los Angeles Clippers during the second half at Kaseya Center. © Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

A former Kentucky Wildcat and the 14th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, he has developed into one of the NBA’s premier centers. A three-time All-Star and five-time All-Defensive selection, he has built a reputation as one of the most versatile big men in the league. His recent 83-point performance, surpassing Kobe Bryant’s long-standing scoring mark, further cemented his place in NBA history.

He is currently under contract through the 2027–28 season after signing a three-year, $166 million maximum extension in July 2024, following his original five-year, $163 million rookie max extension. He is set to earn around $37 million during the 2025–26 season, reflecting his value as a cornerstone player for Miami.

What sets him apart is his rare combination of size and mobility. Despite being a true center, he moves like a guard, allowing him to defend all five positions. His defensive versatility and playmaking ability make him extremely difficult to contain when performing at a high level.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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