It's almost as if Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra couldn't help himself. During his exit interview, after giving him some well-deserved praise, Spo then almost went out of his way to take one more jab at Kel'el Ware.
"For the most part, our young guys got a lot better, on down the line." When speaking specifically about Ware, Spo said: "His improvement certainly was not linear, So there were ups and downs, but I appreciate his intention."
This almost feels like a backhanded comment. Like, "sure Ware did make some strides in his game, but also didn't improve as we hoped he would." And it, unfortunately, falls right in line with how Spo's odd relationship with Ware has developed.
Kel'el Ware had a confusing year with Erik Spoelstra
Even though this has been par for the course, it's still somehow surprising. And not necessarily something that Heat fans have to like, especially considering that Ware is one of the few young players who may be considered a foundational core piece.
In defense of Spo, he did speak highly of Ware and Bam Adebayo's improvement as a duo this year.
Spo said he's more comfortable with Bam and Ware combo moving forward, said they must figure out how to be very good offensively vs great teams
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) April 16, 2026
As Spo mentioned, the duo clearly has something that they can build on heading into the future. Especially down the stretch, it was clear that the comfort level between both players on the floor together grew.
Most importantly, Spo was starting to truth them on the floor more too.
Still, this second season from Ware will be remembered as an odd one. He certainly had his moments and closed the year on a high note - finishing with a monster performance against the Charlotte Hornets in the Play-In Tournament loss (19 points, 12 rebounds, five blocks, and four assists).
Kel'el Ware's future in Miami is difficult to predict
But his future with the Heat is anything but certain.
It has nothing to do with Ware and everything to do with the existential crisis that this franchise is going through.
It's the worst-kept secret in the Association that the Heat are going to be hunting for a star player. If the Heat are successful in their pursuits, Ware is almost certainly going to be involved in any blockbuster package, especially if the Heat lands their top target (Giannis Antetokounmpo).
Both the Heat and Ware know this.
And maybe that's part of what has made this relationship rocky from the start this season. One that still clearly needs to be developed further, especially if Spo's comments in his end of the season invterview is any indication.
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