If the NBA officially expands (potentially adding 1–2 new franchises in the coming years), the Expansion Draft will be a massive opportunity for new teams to build their rosters from the “leftovers” of the current 30 teams. Existing teams can protect up to 8 players (including restricted/pending free agents), and each team can lose a maximum of one player.
Feb 9, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat guard Kasparas Jakucionis (25) looks on against the Utah Jazz during the third quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Based on the Heat’s current situation (as of mid-February 2026), here are the 8 players I would protect if I were in the shoes of Brad Stevens or Pat Riley:
Bam Adebayo → Non-negotiable. The franchise cornerstone, an All-Defensive caliber player, and the soul of “Heat Culture.” Bam is untouchable.
Kasparas Jakucionis → The 19-year-old rookie is exploding (especially with his recent 3-point shooting). He has superstar potential and is the future of the backcourt. Absolute protection.
Kel’el Ware → A long-term project with immense upside (athleticism, spacing, rim protection). The Heat have invested too much development into him to let him walk for free.
Pelle Larsson → A high-quality role player with elite defense and high energy—a perfect fit for Coach Spo’s system. He is rapidly solidifying his place in the rotation.
Jaime Jaquez Jr. → Now in his third year and rebounding strongly. If his 3-point shot continues to develop, he’ll be an elite 3&D wing. Essential for the young core.
Norman Powell → Assuming the Heat extend him this summer (coming off a career year and fitting perfectly). A reliable veteran scorer who is too valuable to lose.
Tyler Herro → Despite recurring injuries and ongoing debates, Herro remains a primary scoring source when healthy. With one year left on his contract, his trade value is high—don’t lose him for nothing.
Andrew Wiggins (or a flexible spot) → If Wiggins opts in or is extended, he should be protected as a high-quality 3&D wing. If not, this spot could go to Dru Smith or another young prospect.
Players Likely to be Exposed:
Davion Mitchell
Nikola Jović (Stagnant development)
Dru Smith
Thomas Bryant (If still on the roster)
Caleb Martin (If not extended)
Two-way or end-of-bench players
Why should the Heat prioritize this strategy?
Focus on Youth + Upside: Prioritizing Jakucionis, Ware, Jaquez, and Larsson ensures the future is secure.
Retaining Veteran Scoring: Keeping Powell and Herro maintains short-term competitiveness.
The “Untouchable” Factor: Bam is the foundation—no exceptions.
System Fit: Wiggins (if retained) is the prototypical 3&D wing for Spo’s schemes.
While an Expansion Draft might be 2–3 years away, this is a fascinating exercise to evaluate how the Heat truly value their current assets.
What do you think?
Do you agree with protecting Herro, or should he be exposed?
Who is the one player you’d be most willing to “sacrifice” if the team had to lose someone?
Does Jakucionis deserve “untouchable” status alongside Bam?