The blockbuster trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo could trigger a chain reaction for the Miami Heat.
By acquiring the forward, the Heat have brought an absolute superstar onto their team. Simultaneously, the mega-trade brings significant consequences for the roster structure – primarily, the potential loss of Norman Powell.
«They’re going to lose their All-Star Norman Powell – unless he takes an extreme pay cut. But he’ll probably be gone… Their General Manager Andy Ellisburg is outstanding at his job. Erik Spoelstra and the entire development team are also strong. I would bet on the Heat – just not for the 2026/2027 season,» explained ESPN insider Brian Windhorst.
The offseason began with a bang for Miami: Alongside Antetokounmpo, the Heat also brought Bobby Portis to the East Coast as part of the spectacular trade. In return, they sent out Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakucionis, and three first-round draft picks.
Miami Likely Unable to Retain All-Star Powell
From a sporting perspective, the deal can certainly be evaluated as a significant gain – after all, the Heat secured a two-time MVP and NBA champion with the Greek forward. However, financially and structurally, the trade has drastic consequences: Due to Antetokounmpo’s salary of approximately $58.45 million next season, the flexibility under the salary cap will be significantly restricted. For the remaining roster planning, only $18.3 million is available to avoid exceeding the First Apron limit of $209 million for the 2026-27 season.
Accordingly, it is considered highly unlikely that Powell can be retained, especially since there are still about five roster spots to fill. Powell, who earned around $19.2 million last season and is now an Unrestricted Free Agent, had recently played the best season of his career. With an average of 21.7 points and a 38 percent three-point shooting percentage, he was selected to the All-Star team for the first time.
Norman Powell Won NBA Championship with Toronto
Despite a likely departure, the 33-year-old has little to worry about regarding his future. According to insider Marc Stein, the Detroit Pistons are particularly interested in Powell, seeing him as an ideal complement to star guard Cade Cunningham.
Powell was drafted 45th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2015, but spent his first seven NBA years with the Toronto Raptors, with whom he won the NBA title in 2019. This was followed by stints with the Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Clippers, and finally the Miami Heat, where he played 58 games in the 2025-26 season and was eliminated in the play-ins by the Charlotte Hornets.