Heat Check: Should Miami Keep Kyle Anderson or Cash Out This Offseason?
The Miami Heat face a familiar question this offseason: make a move or hold tight? That question now hovers over veteran forward Kyle Anderson, whose short stint with the team in 2024 raised eyebrows—not for any drama, but for how little he played and how quietly he contributed. Now, with two years left on his deal and a contract that could be easily moved, the Heat must decide: is Anderson worth keeping, or should they shop him while they can?
Anderson, 31, came to Miami as part of the five-team Jimmy Butler blockbuster but was nearly flipped again within 24 hours to help the Heat avoid the luxury tax. That deal fell apart, and Anderson ended up logging 25 games in a Heat uniform. His numbers were modest: 6.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game on solid efficiency (49.3% FG, 33.3% from three). He wasn’t a star, but he also wasn’t a liability.
Known for his high basketball IQ, steady defense, and leadership, Anderson quickly earned praise from head coach Erik Spoelstra. Spo called out his professionalism and smarts—intangibles that teams value, especially in a playoff environment. Yet, despite that praise, Anderson never carved out a big role. Part of that is Miami’s wing depth; part of it is the team’s urgency to trim salary and prepare for a two-apron world where every dollar matters.
Anderson is due $9.4 million next season, with a non-guaranteed $9.6 million in 2026–27, when he’ll be 33. That makes him a movable piece—either on his own or as part of a larger deal. Miami explored moving him at the deadline, and it wouldn’t be surprising if they revisit that this offseason, especially as they try to improve around Bam Adebayo, Jimmy Butler (assuming he stays), and Tyler Herro.
But here’s the case for keeping him: Anderson is exactly the type of player who often ends up helping playoff teams in unexpected ways. He doesn’t need the ball to contribute, he defends multiple positions, and he rarely makes mistakes. If Miami finds itself short-handed—or wants to play a slower, more deliberate halfcourt game—Anderson can be the steady hand they rely on.
Then again, Anderson’s value might be higher now than it will be at next year’s deadline, especially if his minutes stay limited. Other teams may view him as a low-cost, veteran depth piece who fits into any system. In today’s NBA, expiring and partially guaranteed contracts are currency—and the Heat know that as well as anyone.
It all comes down to roster consolidation. Miami already has a glut of wings and needs more frontcourt size and offensive juice. If Anderson’s contract can help bring in a more dynamic piece—or be folded into a bigger deal for a star—the decision becomes easier.
Still, don’t be surprised if Miami keeps him into the season. He may not be flashy, but Anderson is the kind of player who quietly makes a difference—and Pat Riley and Spoelstra value that. Whether he’s in Miami come October or moved in July, his offseason status is officially on the Heat’s radar.
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