Feb 18, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Western Conference forward Luka Doncic (77) of the Dallas Mavericks dribbles the ball against Eastern Conference center Bam Adebayo (13) of the Miami Heat during the first half of the 73rd NBA All Star game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

How The Miami Heat Can Clear The Way To Sign Luka Doncic In 2026

Originally posted on Miami Heat on SI | By Alex Toledo | Last updated Jul 16, 2025 4:42 PM ET

Luka Doncic becomes eligible to sign a four-year, $229 million extension with the Los Angeles Lakers on Aug. 2. However, Doncic could stand to make more in the long-term if he forgoes signing an extension. The Miami Heat, who would assuredly love to acquire Doncic if he became available, may have an opportunity to make magic happen if he decides to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026.

“If [Luka] doesn’t sign [the extension] he can be a free agent next summer when there’s going to be 10-plus teams with cap space. If he does not sign it you will see teams begin to open up maneuvers to try to chase Luka.” @WindhorstESPN

(@ohnohedidnt24)pic.twitter.com/oRT3JJcem9
— Dru (@dru_star) July 16, 2025

Although the Heat aren't mentioned outright, their plan to pursue the next superstar that becomes available has been well-documented. Around the time they were trying to figure out a trade for Jimmy Butler, it was reported the Heat did not want to take on contracts past 2026.

Then, Doncic was traded in one of the more shocking trades in NBA history, and many assumed he would sign an extension to remain in Los Angeles, likely with LeBron James. A few days later, the Heat traded Butler to the Golden State Warriors, and two of the players they ultimately received in the deal are now under contract through the end of the 2026-2027 season.

As currently constructed, the Heat will have just over $14 million in cap space in 2026, but can get to upwards of $56 million in cap space if they moved Andrew Wiggins and Davion Mitchell for expiring contracts by the February trade deadline.

If Doncic wants to maximize his potential earnings, he could sign a shorter-term, two-year deal in 2026 that would expire in 2028. At that point, after ten years in the league, Doncic becomes eligible for a much bigger contract: up to five years, $418 million.

Here are the contract options for Luka.

Despite the super max extension off the table, Doncic should actually make more in the long run.

Important to note that if Doncic does not sign an extension in August, the financial playing field in what the Lakers can offer and a team… pic.twitter.com/wMJRHWY9pH
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) February 2, 2025