Should the Miami Heat Trade Bobby Portis Jr. Upon Recent Eligibility?

MIAMI, Fla. – The Miami Heat’s blockbuster trade to acquire superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo was finalized exactly two months ago, which means all players involved are trade-eligible, including Bobby Portis Jr.

It was a bit of a surprise that the 31-year-old was involved in the return. However, Portis Jr. joining the roster was a bonus, in addition to a former Finals MVP. He provides floor spacing and gritty defense.

However, the business side of basketball doesn’t wait for anyone. Portis Jr. is currently on an expiring contract, set to make $14.52 million throughout the 2026-27 season. He has a player option worth up to $15.60 million for the following year. Although the Heat can explore the market all the way to the Feb. 5, 2027 trade deadline, it would benefit the team more if Portis Jr. stays.

Last season, the 11-year veteran averaged 13.7 points on 48.8 percent shooting, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 67 games (nine starts). In Portis Jr.’s last seven seasons, he finished in the top 10 in Sixth Man of the Year voting three times, twice as a finalist. The versatility of the former first-round pick allows him to play both as a power forward and an undersized center.

Portis Jr.’s outside shooting has been consistent and reliable during his six-year Milwaukee Bucks tenure. Last season, he finished with a new career-high mark of 45.6 percent from behind the arc. If Portis Jr.’s trend continues, the Heat will have another threat alongside Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, allowing them to break down defenses.

Erik Spoelstra is often credited with small ball in the league. During the “Big 3” era, he would play Chris Bosh, who can space the floor, as an undersized center. Portis Jr. can be used in a similar strategy in certain lineups. However, the Heat won’t need to rely heavily on him as a backup center, as Nick Richards signed a non-guaranteed contract a couple of weeks ago.

Although offers could present themselves, Portis Jr’s value is greater with the team than in trade packages. He’s one of the seven championship rings the Heat added or retained this summer. Portis Jr.’s production could increase, as Spoelstra is known to maximize talent.

The Heat are among the favorites to win the Eastern Conference. Portis Jr. will have an impactful role with the bench unit, delivering an intense presence.

Anthony Aguirre covers the Miami Hurricanes and Miami Heat for Roundtable Sports. Contact info for tips/info: [email protected] & 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports