The Miami Heat transform Myron Gardner's two-way deal into a standard contract, securing a versatile forward for their roster and playoff push.
The Miami Heat have a polished record when it comes to developing overlooked and undrafted talent. Some notable players within the last few years are Gabe Vincent, Max Strus, and Haywood Highsmith. The trend continues with forward Myron Gardner.
It was reported on Wednesday that the organization is converting the 24-year-old from a two-way contract to a standard partially guaranteed three-year deal.
Gardner has appeared in 26 games, averaging 4.2 points on 46.4 percent shooting from the field, 40 percent from three-point range, and three rebounds in 9.8 minutes.
The Detroit native spent three years in college with two Division One programs: the Georgetown Hoyas and Little Rock Trojans. He averaged 10.8 points on 41.8 percent shooting from the field, 35.8 percent from three-point range, 7.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and one steal in 54 total games.
Gardner didn't hear his name get called after the 2023 NBA draft, but after a year in the G-League, he signed an Exhibit-10 contract with the Orlando Magic. The versatile forward spent two seasons with the organization's affiliate, but never got called up.
On July 25, 2025, Gardner signed a two-year, two-way contract with the Heat. He played in all six preseason games, averaging 5.8 points and 4.3 rebounds. Gardner started the season with the organization's G-League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce.
However, towards the beginning of Jan., he would get consistent playing time. Coach Erik Spoelstra and the team don't rely on his scoring, but rather on being a pest on the defensive side of the court and crashing the boards.
Gardner will occupy the Heat's final standard roster spot and will qualify to participate in the playoffs and Play-In Tournament. The franchise was the only one in the Eastern Conference not to make a trade by the deadline. The amount of the new deal isn't disclosed, but it very likely won't impact the Heat's cap space. They're currently $7.2 million under the first apron, $1.6 million under the tax.
Also, the Heat will sign former second-round pick guard Trevor Keels to Gardner's former two-way spot. He's been with the Skyforce this season, averaging 18.5 points on 45.3 percent shooting from the field, 40 percent from three-point range, 3.4 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.2 steals in 32.5 minutes.
Gardner's minutes may fluctuate as the Heat have barely played with a fully healthy roster, mainly with Tyler Herro missing 45 of 56 games thus far. Regardless, he understands the meaning of staying ready.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news! It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our RoundTable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!
More Miami Heat News: