With the blockbuster phase of the NBA offseason behind us, all eyes are on franchises preparing for future leaps back into contention.

The Miami Heat, known for their calculated aggressiveness in the free agent market, are reportedly focusing on the 2027 offseason—when both Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo could theoretically hit the market as free agents.

The rationale: by letting contracts like Terry Rozier, Norman Powell, and Simone Fontecchio expire, Miami could clear nearly $60million in cap room, and even more if Andrew Wiggins declines his option.

The lure of marquee superstars is nothing new in Miami. Their famed “Big 3” era set the standard for constructing title teams through free agency splashes.

According to NBA insiders, this time the Heat may be waiting for a genuine centerpiece to join or supplant Bam Adebayo and launch a new championship window, rather than simply maintaining status quo playoff runs.

The Jokić and Giannis Equation: Realistic Shot or Pipe Dream?

Nikola Jokić’s recent decision to decline a three-year, $206million extension from Denver has fueled fresh speculation, but his logic is more financial than combative. By waiting, Jokić makes himself eligible for an even larger deal next year.

Meanwhile, both he and Antetokounmpo have player options for the 2027-28 season, which means teams like Miami are hoping to have their books clear for a long-shot pursuit.

Despite the noise, most league insiders temper expectations: Jokić, by all signals, appears loyal to Denver and more likely to extend there than leave. The Nuggets are bolstering their roster and remain a perennial contender.

Giannis, while not closing doors on Milwaukee, has more frequently left room for alternatives if championship contention slips from the Bucks’ grasp.

The most realistic path to a true shakeup involves either of these superstars reaching free agency, rather than any feasible trade. Executives across the league agree—Miami might have a better chance than most because of their culture and cap space, but it will still take a perfect storm in 2027.

Heat Culture: Rolling the Dice for NBA Stardom, Again

Miami’s strategy isn’t without risks, especially if new extensions or shifting landscapes close the window to land a generational talent. Still, by maintaining flexibility and refusing to overcommit to the current core, the franchise signals its intention: stay relevant now, but swing big when the moment’s right.

As 2027 approaches, speculation will only intensify. The Heat hope for another era-defining move—a star acquisition that could return them to the NBA’s elite.

Whether that becomes reality depends less on their cap management, and more on the inscrutable decisions of Jokić and Antetokounmpo, two of the game’s brightest stars.