Are the Miami Heat about to make a surprising roster move ahead of the 2025-26 season?
Shocking Move in Store as Heat Considering Dumping Recently Acquired Italian Sharpshooter to Dodge Tax Implications originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
In a stunning recent development, the Miami Heat are reportedly mulling over waiving Italian sharpshooter Simone Fontecchio to avoid the NBA’s luxury tax threshold, according to a tweet shared by SleeperHeat, citing Niko Yenibayrak.
The 29-year-old forward, who joined the Heat after a stint with the Detroit Pistons, has quickly become a fan favorite due to his shooting accuracy and 5.9 points per game average.
However, the Heat’s front office appears ready to sacrifice his potential for financial relief, igniting a firestorm of debate among supporters.
The luxury tax, set at $187.9 million for the 2025-26 season, looms large for teams like the Heat, who are balancing competitiveness with fiscal prudence.
Waiving Fontecchio could save the Heat significant cash, especially if no team claims him within the 48-hour waiver period, per NBA rules.
Yet, this move risks losing a valuable asset acquired in a trade that sent Duncan Robinson to the Pistons, a deal many fans already view as lopsided.
Social media reactions range from disbelief to calls to trade Terry Rozier instead, as fans lament the potential loss of Fontecchio’s sharpshooting prowess.
As of Friday, August 7, 2025, the Heat have yet to confirm the rumor, but the clock is ticking. Should Miami prioritize payroll over potential, or give Fontecchio a real shot to shine?
With the trade deadline nearing, this decision could define their season—and their fans’ patience. One thing is clear: the Heat’s next move will be watched closely by a divided fanbase.
Related: Heat Facing Backlash After Terry Rozier Trade Report Surfaces
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 7, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Basketball
