Heat navigate payroll constraints as Herro rehabs, eight weeks out, forcing internal depth to carry the early load. No luxury-tax salvo forthcoming, so camp starts Sept. 30 with the current roster and a broader idea of rotation in mind.

Norman Powell anchors early offense; Davion Mitchell and Pelle Larsson compete for guard minutes; Dru Smith steps up as a backcourt option; Jaquez Jr. and Rozier earn chances, while Jakucionis, Wiggins, Jovic and Fontecchio add scoring and shooting to bridge the gap.

Heat cap space and win-now pressure collide as Jaquez Jr. emerges as a potential wing pillar, while Rozier looms as a trade or waiver lever to unlock room for a veteran big. Achiuwa’s value at the vet minimum adds rebounding and length, but center bulk may still be needed with Goldin on a two-way and Dedmon/Zeller in uncertain standing.

Tyrese Maxey’s reference anchors Heat decision-making in draft history and roster evaluation, signaling a tilt toward immediate impact over upside, and a continued balancing act between guard depth and frontcourt punch.

Dru Smith earned a full-time NBA spot with the Miami Heat after converting his two-way contract, but injuries interrupted his 2023-24 season and he was waived at the trade deadline. He’s back this season on a three-year veteran minimum, with the first year fully guaranteed, and optimism around his health as he targets a return to rotation minutes. Smith bridges guard depth with his 3-point shooting and on-ball defense, and his health will be the key to whether he can carve out a steady bench role behind the Heat’s guards.

The Heat field a guard group led by Tyler Herro and Norman Powell, with Terry Rozier and the recently drafted Kasparas Jakucionis in the bullpen behind them. Bam Adebayo and Kel'el Ware anchor the frontcourt, while reserve big men Kai Jones and Trey Lyles have showcased workout intrigue. The contract and depth picture signal that Miami values both health and shooting, banking on Smith to stay ready for a season that could hinge on minor-rotation opportunities and timely injuries.

From a fantasy lens, Smith is a contingent late-round pickup with 3-point potential and defensive value off the bench. His role depends on health and how quickly he can re-establish chemistry with the unit, especially if Rozier or Jakucionis miss time. If he remains healthy, Smith could provide efficient scoring in limited minutes and defend at a serviceable level, making him a sneaky DFS or late-season stashing option as the Heat balance rest and rotation.