The Miami Heat’s pursuit of star talent continues following their unsuccessful chase of Kevin Durant.
The franchise has built a reputation for attracting marquee players, and recent developments suggest another major move could be on the horizon.
Pat Riley and Erik Spoelstra appear determined to retool their roster with a significant addition that could reshape the team’s championship aspirations.
According to Bovada’s latest odds, Ja Morant and Lauri Markkanen are co-favorites at +550 to join the Miami Heat.
Right behind them are Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis at +700, with Jamal Murray close at +900.
According to Bovada, the favorites to be the next superstar to land in Miami are:
Ja Morant (+550)
Lauri Markkanen (+550)
Zach LaVine (+700)
Domantas Sabonis (+700)
Jamal Murray (+900) https://t.co/toT6UaFdbu— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 12, 2025
Each potential acquisition would bring distinct value to Miami’s system.
Morant represents the most dynamic option despite his off-court challenges.
The Memphis Grizzlies star averaged 23.2 points and 7.3 assists in 2024-25 before a shoulder injury cut his season short.
His explosive playmaking ability would provide the alpha presence Miami has lacked since the Dwyane Wade era, while creating better opportunities for Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo.
Markkanen offers a different but equally compelling fit.
The Utah Jazz forward contributed 19.0 points and 5.9 rebounds last season.
His size and spacing would complement Adebayo perfectly, and his team-first approach aligns with Miami’s culture.
LaVine and Sabonis present intriguing options with notable concerns.
LaVine’s injury history raises durability questions, while Sabonis might create spacing issues alongside Adebayo.
Whereas Murray represents the wildcard choice, bringing proven clutch performance from Denver’s playoff runs, though extracting him from the Nuggets would require significant circumstances.
If Riley executes another masterful acquisition, Miami could quickly re-emerge as a legitimate Eastern Conference contender.
