Pat Riley challenges Heat; team faces tough offseason

Pat Riley, Dwyane Wade — Photo: Zac Schuss, @zacschuss

While many NBA executives use vague language in media sessions, Heat president Pat Riley was direct last spring and fall, challenging his players to be healthier and more dependable.

Tyler Herro responded impressively, shaking off the “fragile” label by playing 77 games, averaging 23.9 points, and earning his first All-Star nod in 2024–25.

But Riley’s tough-love approach didn’t sit well with everyone. Jimmy Butler, frustrated by Riley’s blunt advice to “keep (his) mouth shut” and Miami’s refusal to offer a max extension, became disgruntled.

By December, he requested a trade and was suspended three times for “conduct detrimental to the team.” Despite the drama, the Heat hovered above .500 at the trade deadline.

After dealing Butler to the Warriors for Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, and Davion Mitchell, Miami hoped to refocus – but collapsed, losing 17 of 21 games.

A late six-game winning streak helped them finish 10th. In April, the Heat became the first 10-seed to advance through the play-in but were then swept in the most lopsided playoff series in NBA history.

Their playoff appearance transferred their first-round pick to OKC, avoiding an unprotected 2026 obligation. Now, with that 2026 pick secure, Miami has more flexibility moving forward.

While a rebuild seems unlikely under Riley, the Heat will explore ways to quickly return to contention.