Klay Thompson Could Start for Heat; Richards Fights for Roster Spot
Klay Thompson's shooting may earn him Miami's final starting spot after he joined following a buyout from Dallas. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Pelle Larsson are viewed as his main competition, while Nick Richards may need to secure a roster spot with a non-guaranteed deal. Assistant coach Vin Baker is also looking forward to continuing his work with Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Miami added Klay Thompson after he exited Dallas via buyout, hoping his perimeter accuracy can complement Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bam Adebayo, Andrew Wiggins and Davion Mitchell. Thompson owns 2,899 career threes, fourth-most in league history. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Pelle Larsson are seen as his primary rivals for the starting shooting guard role.
Nick Richards faces a roster decision: his one-year, non-guaranteed deal pays $3.1MM, fully guaranteed if he remains past opening night. Miami has limited experienced centers behind Adebayo and Bobby Portis. Vin Baker, now on Miami’s staff after eight years in Milwaukee, values continuing his bond with Antetokounmpo. Miami’s camp runs Sept. 29–Oct. 2 at Florida Atlantic. Jahmir Young’s G League rights went to the Lakers’ affiliate.
The Heat’s roster choices could shape fan engagement in Miami and among basketball followers, especially if Thompson’s shooting or Richards’s roster status affects team performance. A successful season may boost local game attendance, merchandise interest, and media attention, while coaching continuity with Antetokounmpo may draw broader NBA viewership. These effects remain uncertain and depend on on-court results.