Heat Reshape Roster After Butler's Departure

The Miami Heat are entering the 2025 NBA free agency period with significant roster flexibility following the confirmed departure of Jimmy Butler and a missed chance to land Kevin Durant. Utilizing the $14.1 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception and potential sign-and-trade deals, the Heat are targeting players like Golden State's Jonathan Kuminga, though trade talks may be complex. The team's strategy will also be shaped by the free agency status of Duncan Robinson and new additions including Davion Mitchell and rookie Kasparas Jakucionis, as they aim to strengthen their frontcourt depth behind Bam Adebayo and Kel'el Ware. Elsewhere, the New York Knicks are actively pursuing Jordan Clarkson after his buyout from the Utah Jazz, and Luke Kennard is attracting interest from playoff contenders such as the Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks, and Denver Nuggets. Multiple teams, including the Heat and Knicks, are making aggressive moves to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season amidst an active free agency market.