Miami Heat Faces Uncertainty After Record Playoff Exit

After a humiliating first-round playoff exit marked by an NBA-record 122-point series margin, the Miami Heat face a pivotal offseason with expectations of significant roster changes. The midseason trade of Jimmy Butler signals a likely shift toward rebuilding, though the core of Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo remains intact, and the team possesses some cap flexibility and an extra first-round pick. Miami's struggles—its worst record in over a decade and assets tied up in previous trades—limit its ability to make immediate blockbuster moves, but the front office could leverage its three tradeable firsts and cap space to improve. Key contract decisions loom, especially concerning Herro's extension eligibility and the long-term roles of veterans like Kevin Love, whose current contract reflects his transition to a supporting role. Team president Pat Riley is expected to be aggressive in reshaping the roster, especially after such a low point for the franchise. The Bucks, meanwhile, face their own crisis after another playoff disappointment and the injury to Damian Lillard, raising questions about Giannis Antetokounmpo's future and whether Milwaukee will need to rebuild if he seeks a trade.