The Miami Heat are believed to be exploring ways to bolster their frontcourt depth before the start of the 2025–26 season. Trey Lyles and Kai Jones are among various players FastbreakJournal.com sources can confirm have drawn interest this summer.
The search for additional depth comes after an offseason in which Miami addressed its perimeter rotation, but has since moved on from Kevin Love and Haywood Highsmith in trades.
While there are more options than just Lyles and Jones, they represent two distinct approaches to that goal. Lyles, a proven veteran with playoff experience, offers floor spacing and versatility in a bench role. Jones, a former first-round pick, brings elite athleticism and untapped potential as a developmental project. Both players have skill sets that could complement Miami’s existing rotation.
The Heat have retooled without making major, franchise-altering trades this summer. Norman Powell’s arrival via a deal with the Los Angeles Clippers added scoring to the wing rotation, while the team re-signed guard Davion Mitchell and signed rookies Kasparas Jakucionis and Vladislav Goldin. The front office has emphasized depth and flexibility, a theme that could extend to the frontcourt in the coming weeks.
Trey Lyles Brings Veteran Shooting and Versatility
Lyles, a 6-foot-10 forward who spent the past three seasons with the Sacramento Kings, is an unrestricted free agent after playing for five teams since being drafted 12th overall in 2015. Known for his floor spacing and steady production off the bench, he averaged 6.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 69 games last season.
The Canadian veteran has career highs of 26 points, six assists, five steals, and four blocks, offering a blend of scoring, rebounding, and positional flexibility. With Love’s departure creating a gap in the rotation, Lyles could provide depth at both power forward and small-ball center.
Kai Jones Offers Athletic Upside and Energy
Kai Jones, a former first-round pick by the Charlotte Hornets, most recently played for the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 11.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 12 games during the 2024–25 season. At 6-foot-11, he is known for his athleticism, defensive versatility and ability to run the floor.
Jones took part in recent workouts with the Heat and impressed with his energy and activity, sources told FastbreakJournal.com. His combination of size and mobility could make him a valuable developmental option for Miami’s rotation.
Adding another big man is expected to remain a priority as the Heat finalize preparations for training camp. Lyles would bring a proven veteran presence, while Jones offers long-term upside — two different paths toward the same goal of shoring up Miami’s frontcourt depth.
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