Armed with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Klay Thompson, South Beach’s revamped roster takes center stage as a blockbuster offseason transforms the franchise into a primetime championship contender once again.
MIAMI, Fla. – After entering the 2026-27 season with 25 nationally televised games, the Miami Heat are slated for six more slots, specifically on NBATV, the league announced on Thursday.
The games included:
- Oct. 26 Vs. Dallas
- Nov. 5 at Golden State (Klay Thompson’s return)
- Nov. 14 Vs. Detroit
- Jan. 14 at New York (Defending champions)
- March 19 at Phoenix
- March 27 Vs. Boston (Rivalry)
The Heat haven’t often been at the forefront of national media attention, even with three Eastern Conference Finals and two NBA Finals appearances since 2020. However, the narrative has changed following an eventful offseason. The Heat either added or retained four NBA Champions and seven total rings: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bobby Portis Jr., Andrew Wiggins (extended), and Thompson.
Along with NBATV, the Heat received eight slots on ESPN, six on Prime Video, two on ABC, and nine on NBC.
This season is arguably the most publicity the franchise has gotten since forming the “Big 3” in the summer of 2010 and championship aspirations couldn’t have been greater. The Heat gave up four younger players, including All-Star guard Tyler Herro, in exchange for Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade.
Despite the 31-year-old coming off an injury-riddled season, he is still must-see TV. Antetokounmpo’s production and dominance have been steady since winning his first MVP in the 2018-19 season. He’s averaged 29.4 points on 57.8 percent shooting, 11.8 rebounds, six assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.1 blocks over the last eight years.
Thompson’s availability since returning from two severe injuries (torn ACL and Achilles tendon) has surpassed expectations. He’s played in at least 69 games over the last four seasons.
Erik Spoelstra is familiar with handling several alphas and facing immense pressure.
The Heat are among the favorites to win the Eastern Conference and are in the same tier as the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Boston Celtics. It’s a significant jump after participating in the Play-In Tournament for four consecutive seasons.
Bam Adebayo, three-time All-Star and five-time All-Defensive center, is the clear face of the franchise. He’s been named Captain, but this time around, the 29-year-old carries heavier weight.
The Heat haven’t won the Larry O’Brien trophy in 13 years. After LeBron James departed in 2014, they’ve only come close twice. Given the new star power and supporting cast assembled, it’s a championship-or-bust season approaching.
As training camp is on the horizon, Spoelstra will gather more ideas on putting the pieces together.
Anthony Aguirre covers the Miami Hurricanes, Miami Heat, and Miami Marlins for Roundtable Sports. Contact info for tips/info: [email protected] & 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
