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Miami Heat consider backup options if LeBron James declines offer

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 22, 2026, 5:51 AM

Last updated Jul 22, 2026

Miami Heat consider backup options if LeBron James declines offer

Summary

The Miami Heat are preparing for LeBron James’ free agency decision, which remains pending. Reports suggest the Heat might pursue six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan if James does not join the team. However, the Heat have not given DeRozan or his agent any assurances regarding their interest in him. Team president Pat Riley may be keeping options open while waiting for clarity on James’ situation, emphasizing the need for effective offseason planning. Any commitment to DeRozan would likely depend on James’ decision.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Miami Heat awaiting a decision from LeBron James on his free agency
•Possible interest in DeMar DeRozan if James declines their offer
•No assurances given to DeRozan by the Heat or his representatives
•Heat prioritizing offseason planning as they await James' decision
•DeRozan's future with Miami contingent on the outcome with James

Latest Updates

5:51 AMYahoo Sports — NBA Rumors: Heat Offer ‘No Assurances’ to 6-Time All-Star As Backup Plan if They Miss Out on LeBron James

What they're saying

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Just because it’s been quiet on the news front doesn’t mean NBA rumors have stopped spreading. Sure, teams like the Miami Heat are likely waiting on LeBron James’ free-agency decision before finalizing other plans.
— Yahoo Sports

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