Fresh off record-breaking scoring outbursts for Team Sweden, the versatile wing prepares to anchor Miami Heat's bench unit.
MIAMI, Fla. – Miami Heat guard Pelle Larsson became the first player in FIBA World Cup European Quarterfinals to score 30-plus points in back-to-back games, which should make him an early candidate for the Sixth Man of the Year award.
The Swedish native is coming off a productive NBA season. He averaged 11.4 points on 49.6 percent shooting, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in 70 games (54 starts). Larsson began the year as a primary starter, then moved to a reserve role, but the impact remained consistent. The 25-year-old’s final numbers weren’t always flashy, but he contributed to winning.
Given the additions of Klay Thompson and Tim Hardaway Jr., Larsson is likely to play a significant role on the Heat’s bench unit. Given the flashes shown in FIBA basketball, the Sixth Man of the Year award should be an early consideration.
In Team Sweden’s 88-79 win over Slovenia, Larsson led with 31 points on 47.6 percent shooting, two rebounds, and three assists in 32 minutes. He was one of three players to reach double figures in scoring. Following up in an 86-81 win over Finland, Larsson finished with another 31-point performance, along with five rebounds, in 31 minutes.
This summer, the Heat picked up his $2.30 million club option for the 2026-27 season. Larsson is extension eligible and can sign a four-year deal worth up to $93 million, according to the Miami Herald. The window will remain open through June 30, 2027.
Larsson is a scrappy defender who doesn’t need the ball to make an impact. The outside shooting continues to be a work in progress, but inside the arc, he’s capable of causing damage. Whether it’s the mid-range, floater, or cutting to the basket, Larsson can finish the play.
Winning the Sixth Man of the Year award would very likely raise his value on the open market. Pending an extension, Larsson will be a restricted free agent next summer. The Heat will be able to match any offer he signs.
The financial aspects could get tricky, especially with Giannis Antetokounmpo’s pending extension. It appears Larsson will have to wait before sitting at the negotiation table. He’s represented by Austin Brown and Steve Heumann of Creative Artists Agency. Larsson signed with the agency in mid-June.
Ahead of the 2026-27 season, the Heat are early favorites to win the Eastern Conference. Larsson’s unmeasured impact and pesty playstyle will contribute to championship-contending causes for Erik Spoelstra and the team.
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
