What Is the 30-Year-Old Small Forward’s Role for the Miami Heat This Season?
Andrew Wiggins is expected to play a significant role on the Miami Heat's roster as the 2025-26 season begins. This indicates that the organization values his two-way versatility. Although he has been on the trade market throughout most of the off-season involving the Milwaukee Bucks, the franchise plans to keep him during training camp to prepare for the upcoming regular season. They view Wiggins's presence as a calculated trial run, allowing him to demonstrate his fit with the team, while also acknowledging that Miami will be aggressive and decisive if things do not align. Financially, Wiggins is set to earn approximately $28.2 million next season and has a sizable player option worth about $30.2 million for the following year. These factors position Wiggins as a key rotational wing, with his future beyond the season opener likely dependent on his consistency and impact.
On the court, Wiggins is projected to take on a starting role as the Heat’s small forward, anchoring a newly configured starting five that includes Tyler Herro, Norman Powell, Bam Adebayo, and Kel'el Ware. This role positions him as potentially the third-best player on the roster, trailing only Adebayo and Herro. This reflects the level of trust Miami has in Wiggins’s abilities. His responsibilities will likely involve providing perimeter scoring, defensive versatility, and veteran stability. This is especially important as the team adjusts to new additions, such as Powell, and incorporates its younger talent.
Another strength Wiggins brings to the Heat is his experience defending elite talent in high-pressure situations. Back with Golden State, he earned praise for his performance in the 2022 Finals, where his defense on Jayson Tatum and other Celtics stars was crucial. That same discipline and length translate well into Miami’s system, which thrives on toughness and accountability. Miami will look to channel his energy and focus so that his defense shows up every night rather than in flashes. If so, he could easily be the Heat’s best perimeter defender next to Bam’s interior versatility. His ability to bridge the gap between Miami's stars and depth pieces is crucial. If he starts the season with momentum and opportunities, the Heat can take advantage of this unique opportunity to pursue another Larry O’Brien Trophy.
