Projecting what the Heat’s starting lineup might realistically look like in 2025-26

SG: Jimmy Butler 

The shooting guard position is one that Butler is familiar with from his Chicago Bulls days. At 6-foot-7, a change in that regard going from small forward could also bring more size into the backcourt and a perfect defensive partner for Herro. Not to mention as Butler ages and possibly a two-year window of the best from him could make it easier for defensive assignments on smaller players.

To make a lineup like this work, he is going to have to continue shooting the ball from long range at an efficient clip. He shot 41% from that category a year ago, and 3-point shooting could be something that the Heat’s star continues to lean on as he gets older.

With all the trade rumors that gained traction regarding Butler at the start of the offseason, he quickly shut that down by making the decision to wait on a new contract after this upcoming season. He could opt-in with his $53 million contract through 2025-26 next summer. There is also the possibility of him opting out to sign a new deal or even leave to go elsewhere.

Money may ultimately talk in what could be Butler’s last real payday. However, the Heat franchise star has been adamant on wanting to play in Miami for the rest of his career. It would be really tough to imagine him retiring with another team at this point.