Miami Heat Eyes Kai Jones to Fill Roster Gap After Highsmith's Injury
The Miami Heat evaluated free agent Kai Jones on August 13, 2025, seeking frontcourt depth amid injury concerns.
Miami Heat Eyes Kai Jones to Fill Roster Gap After Highsmith's Injury
As the Miami Heat look to solidify their roster ahead of the upcoming NBA season, the focus has turned to free agent big man Kai Jones, who recently worked out with the team. With an open roster spot and about $4 million under the first tax apron, the Heat are keen to enhance their frontcourt depth, particularly given the recent injury concerns surrounding Haywood Highsmith, who has suffered a torn meniscus in his right knee.
Kai Jones comes with a promising background, being selected 19th overall in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets. After spending his initial seasons with the Hornets, he made waves last season as part of the Los Angeles Clippers and later the Dallas Mavericks. During his time with the Mavericks, Jones made a notable impression in his debut by scoring 21 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. He also recorded a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds against the Indiana Pacers. In total, he averaged 11.4 points and 6.6 rebounds over 12 games with the Mavericks, alongside his performances with the Clippers and the G League.
Assessing the Fit
The Heat’s interest in Kai Jones aligns with their strategy to find undervalued talent that can contribute meaningfully to their roster. Reports indicate that Jones was nearing a deal with Italian team Virtus Bologna before his workout with Miami, illustrating how quickly the landscape can shift in the NBA. The Heat will continue to evaluate Jones’s fit, having invited him to remain in Miami through Thursday as they assess his potential for that coveted final roster spot.
Norman Powell, who recently joined the Heat from the Clippers in a three-team trade involving the Utah Jazz, has expressed his excitement about the transition. He shared his gratitude for the warm welcome in South Florida and highlighted the importance of being close to his new playing location, which should aid his acclimatization to the Heat.
Upcoming Challenges
The challenges ahead for the Heat include addressing Highsmith’s absence and building a solid lineup around their star center, Bam Adebayo, and rookie Vlad Goldin. They surely hope adding a talent like Jones can help fortify their frontcourt and provide the necessary support as they gear up for the preseason, kicking off with a matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks on October 6.
The Miami Heat are making strategic moves not just out of necessity but as part of a larger plan to stay competitive in a league that is constantly evolving. As they look to blend new talents with their existing roster, all eyes will be on their decisions in what promises to be an intriguing season ahead.
For further details, SI.com reports on the Heat’s pursuit of Kai Jones and ClutchPoints provides insights into the implications of Highsmith’s injury. Additionally, The Hoop Doctors highlight how the team is navigating its roster-building process.