The "gap year" appears to be a full go for the Miami Heat this season. At least one NBA insider isn't afraid to say the quiet part out loud about the Heat heading into this year, and it's the fact that this team is simply not going to factor much in the Eastern Conference.
In theory, it should push the Heat to focus more on the future than the present throughout the year, especially in the months leading up to the 2026 NBA Trade Deadline. In the words of Jake Fischer, the Heat should be big sellers this season.
"I think the Heat are not likely to be a major factor in the Eastern Conference playoff picture."Jake Fischer on the Heat
Whether or not the season will actually unravel in that direction remains to be seen. However, it's the expectation for many across the league. Could that change if the Heat gets off to an unexpected hot start to the year? Absolutely.
And with elite coaching and a better-than-average roster, that could happen. There's just not a high likelihood of it unfolding in that manner.
Heat should be focused on development this season
As much as they may not want to admit it, the one thing the Heat should be focused on this season is development. Sure, the Heat must continue to navigate between the dynamics of Tyler Herro (who is due a contract extension sooner rather than later) and Bam Adebayo, but their developing young core needs to be at the forefront of their focus this year.
At the very least, Miami needs to exit this season with a strong grasp of where their young core lands in respect to their future.
Not to mention, they have to make decisions soon on the future of both Nikola Jovic and Jaime Jaquez Jr. There's a small chance that the decision on Jovic comes before the start of the year but if it doesn't, the Heat would need further clarity with his play this season.
Beyond both of those players, the Heat would like to see Kel'el Ware take another step forward in his development, and will need to see at least some promise from Kasparas Jakucionis.
For many reasons, this is a significant season for the Heat. It may not include a deep playoff run, and many may not consider the Heat as a "relevant" team in the Eastern Conference, but there is no question that this year will have a huge impact on the future of this franchise.