Three questions for Heat ahead of 2025-26 season

It's been a solid offseason for the Miami Heat. Pat Riley pivoted quickly after failing to secure a trade for Kevin Durant. However, there should be an acceptance that Erik Spoelstra's team, as currently constructed, is not a contender. 

Still, that shouldn't stop Heat fans from approaching the season with optimism. Spoelstra has several young talents on the roster who could make significant developmental leaps throughout the season. With that in mind, here are three big questions the Heat must answer to begin the new season.

Can Miami Heat stay afloat without Tyler Herro?

Tyler Herro was recently ruled out for at least the first eight weeks of the 2025-26 NBA season. ESPN's Shams Charania has reported that he needs to undergo surgery on a foot injury. 

Therefore, Miami will be starting the season behind the eight-ball. Its primary on-ball creator and scorer not being in the rotation will test the Heat's limited guard depth. Rookie Kasparas Jakucionis will undoubtedly be thrust into a larger role than expected, while Terry Rozier could find himself getting a second chance.

Nevertheless, the opening months of the season are essential in building momentum and rhythm. Miami needs to stay afloat until he's back in the rotation and playing at a high level.

Can Norman Powell be a difference-maker? 

Norman Powell is coming off a stellar season with the Los Angeles Clippers. He ended the season averaging 21.8 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting 48.4 percent from the field and a stellar 41.8 percent from deep. 

Spoelstra will undoubtedly welcome the versatile shot profile Powell brings, especially off the dribble. Still, it will be interesting to see how he handles a different role in Miami, and whether that impacts his overall efficiency and effectiveness. If Powell can have another big season, the Heat could be a sleeper threat in the Eastern Conference, assuming others around him take developmental jumps, of course.

Will Kel'el Ware be given a larger role? 

Kel'el Ware started 36 of his 64 rookie-season games. He showcased a high-level motor, elite athleticism and great timing on both sides of the floor. The problem is, his fit next to Bam Adebayo limits the floor spacing in the starting five, which may lead to another season splitting his time between the second unit and the starting group.

Nevertheless, Spoelstra has always leaned toward having a stern defense. Ware's presence in the paint would elevate the Heat's rim protection and boost their overall defensive standing. 

It will be interesting to see whether Spoelstra is willing to give the second-year big man a larger role or whether the spacing issues would cause him pause. Either way, Ware should be an important part of the Heat's roster this season, and that should lead to some solid developments in his overall game.