The Miami Heat appear to have made their position on Nikola Jovic very clear: the Serbian forward is not someone they are willing to sacrifice in their pursuit of another veteran scorer.
Miami’s roster underwent a major transformation after acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo, creating a need for additional shooting and offensive firepower around their new superstar.
One of the names reportedly on the Heat’s radar is Klay Thompson.
However, according to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, Miami’s interest in the five-time NBA champion does not extend to giving up Jovic in order to make a deal happen.
That decision could prove significant as the Heat continue reshaping their roster around Antetokounmpo.
Miami want more shooting around Giannis Antetokounmpo
The arrival of Antetokounmpo naturally changes what Miami need from the players around him.
The two-time MVP can dominate the ball, attack the basket and create opportunities for teammates, but surrounding him with reliable shooters could make the Heat significantly more difficult to defend.
Thompson would fit that profile perfectly.
Even at 36 years old, the veteran remains one of the most recognizable perimeter shooters of his generation and could provide Miami with another dangerous option from outside.
The challenge, however, is finding a realistic way to bring him to South Beach.
Latest reporting for @ClutchPoints on Klay Thompson's future, with the Mavericks continuing to try and trade the 5x All-Star.
— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) August 14, 2026
Sources say there is still no motivation in Dallas for a buyout to occur. https://t.co/wX9hYw2ECr
Heat refuse to sacrifice Nikola Jovic
While Miami are exploring ways to improve their roster, Nikola Jovic does not appear to be part of their plans to create that upgrade.
The Serbian forward is only 23 years old and remains viewed as a player with considerable room for development.
That makes his situation very different from Thompson’s.
Thompson is entering the final year of his contract and is already 36, while Jovic represents a much younger asset who could potentially become an important piece of Miami’s future.
The Heat therefore appear unwilling to sacrifice long-term upside for a short-term addition.
Jovic struggled to establish himself consistently last season, but Miami’s belief in his potential has apparently not changed.
Klay Thompson wants another chance to compete for a title
Thompson’s future could ultimately depend on whether the Dallas Mavericks decide to move in a different direction.
The veteran shooter has made it clear that competing at the highest level is his priority at this stage of his career.
“I want to compete for a championship – not necessarily win it, but have a chance to try. I want a role on a team that can go deep in the playoffs. Whether it’s this season or next season, that’s my only goal.”
Dallas, however, currently appears focused on building around its young core, with Cooper Flagg representing the centerpiece of the franchise’s future.
New head coach Dusty May is also entering the beginning of what the Mavericks hope will be a long-term project.
That could make a potential split with Thompson something worth monitoring.
Could Thompson become a free agent?
One potential route to Miami would involve Dallas releasing Thompson rather than the Heat attempting to acquire him through a trade.
According to Siegel, however, Thompson has not yet requested a buyout from the Mavericks.
Miami also has limited financial flexibility.
The Heat reportedly have just over $10 million in room before reaching the first tax-related threshold, while the second apron is also within reach.
As a result, Miami would likely need Thompson to accept a veteran minimum contract if he became available.
That scenario would make the move considerably easier for the Heat.
Bradley Beal was another option
Thompson is not the only veteran scorer Miami have considered.
The Heat also had interest in Bradley Beal, another experienced offensive player who could have provided additional scoring and shooting around Antetokounmpo.
However, Beal ultimately agreed to join the Los Angeles Clippers, removing another potential target from Miami’s list.
That leaves the Heat continuing to search for affordable perimeter talent without sacrificing the young players they believe can contribute to the franchise’s future.
Miami continue to believe in Nikola Jovic
The situation surrounding Jovic ultimately sends a clear message about how Miami view the Serbian.
Despite a difficult 2025-26 season and the arrival of a superstar who has completely changed the team’s hierarchy, the Heat still appear unwilling to give up on the 23-year-old.
His $16.2 million annual salary makes him a significant financial piece, but Miami evidently believe his age, versatility and development potential make him more valuable than a short-term upgrade.
The Heat will continue looking for shooting and scoring around Antetokounmpo.
But if Thompson is to become part of that picture, Miami appear determined to find a way to do it without giving up Nikola Jovic.
