Erik Spoelstra Explains the Purpose of Miami Heat Dennis Smith Jr. Signing

MIAMI, Fla. – The Miami Heat announced on Thursday the signing and waiving of seven-year league veteran Dennis Smith Jr., which puts him on the Sioux Falls Skyforce’s (G League affiliate) roster for the 2026-27 season.

After holding training camp last week, the 28-year-old wasn’t present. Smith Jr. didn’t have the opportunity to compete for the Heat’s last open standard roster spot. Although he could’ve added playmaking depth, the organization went a different direction.

The former 2017 lottery pick started last season with the Wisconsin Herd, the Milwaukee Bucks’ G League affiliate. He averaged 5.6 points on 25 percent shooting, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.6 steals in five games (four starts). Smith Jr. was waived in late January; then the Skyforce claimed him off waivers. In 21 games (13 starts), he averaged 8.2 points on 39.8 percent shooting, 4.8 rebounds, 6.7 assists, and 1.7 steals.

In Friday’s practice media availability, Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra explained Smith Jr.’s situation:

“We like Dennis,” he said. “Obviously, we invested in his development. We know that he still wants to get back in the league and we want to try to help. We hope it can be a symbiotic relationship where he’s helping us develop the young guys by playing the right way, setting up guys, and making the game easier for them. Hopefully, we can make his dream happen as well.”

During the season, Smith Jr. can sign a 10-day or standard contract with any organization in the league. The North Carolina native is ineligible for a two-way deal because he has more than four years of league experience. It makes the challenge greater for Smith Jr. to return to the league.

An area desperately needing improvement is three-point shooting. Every organization prioritizes floor spacing to surround the stars. Smith Jr. is a career 29.8 percent three-point shooter. He’s only finished above 30 three times. If Smith Jr. wants to create a legitimate chance to return to the league, being a consistent outside shotmaker will need to be showcased.

The Skyforce have not yet announced the full 2026-27 roster. However, new leadership has emerged. Former franchise Head Video Coordinator Mario Casamajor was named the Skyforce’s new head coach. Plus, he’s the Program Director for the Nicaragua Women’s National Team and head coach of the men’s side.

Liam Doyle was named the Skyforce’s new general manager. He was previously in an assistant role while being the Heat’s Senior Manager of Basketball Analytics and Scouting.

Smith Jr. will likely be the team’s leading point guard. As he has control of the ball, that gives him an opportunity to dictate the results.

The Heat have a rich history of developing successful second chances. Max Strus, Caleb Martin, Haywood Highsmith, and Duncan Robinson are current examples. Smith Jr. will look to carve out a similar path.

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