The Miami Heat are poised to make a significant move by securing one of their top players for the future. According to insider Shams Charania, the Heat and All-Star center Bam Adebayo are set to agree on a three-year maximum contract extension worth $166 million. This deal would keep the All-NBA defender in Miami through the 2028-2029 season.
Adebayo, 26, is considered one of the best defensive players and rim protectors in the NBA. Outside of six-time All-Star Jimmy Butler, he is the most valuable player on the team. Adebayo’s prime years align perfectly with the Heat’s ambitions to return to title contention. However, with Butler now 34 years old, the pressure is on for the team to win now.
The Miami Heat and Bam Adebayo – a three-time All-Star and three-time All-Defensive player – intend to reach a three-year, $166 million maximum contract extension, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Heat expect to lock in their cornerstone center through the 2028-29 season. pic.twitter.com/r8K8P6nyRE
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 26, 2024
Despite trading for former Charlotte Hornets point guard Terry Rozier in January, the Heat still need a significant addition to become serious contenders in the Eastern Conference. After being eliminated in the first round by the champion Celtics this year, the team needs to regroup and strategize. It’s worth noting that the Heat reached the NBA Finals two seasons ago as an 8th seed and as a 6th seed in the 2019-20 season.
With Adebayo secured for the next half-decade, the Miami Heat have ensured the presence of their star center, providing a strong foundation to build upon for future success.
