Despite their sudden elimination from the 2025 playoffs, the Miami Heat are not expected to start rebuilding. Instead, team president Pat Riley is likely to focus on reshaping the roster.
Big names like Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo will probably be mentioned in rumors tied to Miami. Still, the Heat may also explore less flashy but highly effective roster moves.
One potential target is Jrue Holiday. The veteran guard has already proven to be a vital piece on two championship teams — first with the Milwaukee Bucks and more recently with the Boston Celtics. As the Celtics aim to shed salary to avoid the second luxury tax apron, Holiday could become available in trade talks.
ClutchPoints’ Ben Cooper suggests that Miami could be a strong destination for Holiday.
“The Miami Heat are a team that could be in the mix for Holiday,” Cooper wrote. “The Eastern Conference is weak right now, giving the Heat a chance to reload and compete. Holiday would complement Tyler Herro well, who drives their offense but struggles defensively.”
Holiday would give head coach Erik Spoelstra another elite defender, while also bringing strong playmaking and scoring. His adaptability would make him a seamless fit in Miami’s system.
Holiday’s Age Likely Not a Dealbreaker for Heat
Holiday will be 35 next season — a factor that likely contributes to Boston’s openness to trading him. But Pat Riley has shown he’s not deterred by age when evaluating talent.
“I believe an older, great player can still step up in the playoffs,” Riley said. “Look at guys like LeBron [James]. Players who’ve excelled into their mid-to-late 30s can still be difference-makers. You just have to pick the right ones — and I’m not against that at all.”
While not a superstar, Holiday is the kind of high-impact player who could lead a new era in Miami. He brings energy, defensive grit, and thrives under pressure.
Holiday Wants to Stay in Boston
The challenge for Miami — or any interested team — is that Holiday has made it clear he hopes to remain with the Celtics.
“I think we still have a great opportunity to win another championship,” Holiday said. “From the players to the coaching staff to Brad [Stevens], everything here is top-tier. I want to be part of that.”
Ultimately, the decision lies with Brad Stevens, leaving Holiday’s future uncertain. Whether Miami could put together a trade offer strong enough to tempt Boston is unclear. But given how well Holiday would fit with the Heat, it’s understandable why the Celtics might be reluctant to strengthen a direct conference rival.
Leave a Reply