Letting go of familiar faces is never easy, but in recent years, the Miami Heat have made some well-timed decisions in moving on from certain players. Though each of these guys had memorable moments in South Beach and will be remembered fondly by fans, it’s clear now that the Heat walked away at exactly the right time.
Caleb Martin
After an underwhelming stint with the Charlotte Hornets, Caleb Martin found new life in Miami. Over three seasons with the Heat, he transformed into a reliable two-way wing, earning respect across the league.
His crowning moment came in the 2023 Eastern Conference Finals, where Martin lit up the Boston Celtics, averaging 19 points and six boards while shooting 49 percent from deep. That performance ensured his place in Heat history.
Ultimately, Martin walked in free agency following the 2023-24 season, signing with the Philadelphia 76ers. Since then, though, his play hasn’t been the same. Looking back, it’s clear the Heat dodged a possible overpay.
Gabe Vincent
Another fan favorite, Gabe Vincent developed into a borderline starting point guard in Miami. He played a crucial role during their 2023 NBA Finals run.
After that season, Vincent took a deal from the Los Angeles Lakers that was too good to turn down. Unfortunately, injuries derailed his first year, and he struggled to regain momentum in year two.
Now 29, Vincent still has time to find his rhythm again. But as it stands, Miami squeezed the best out of him during his time there.
P.J. Tucker
P.J. Tucker’s exit in 2022 stung a bit. In just one season, he embodied everything the Heat culture stands for. He was a defensive leader and a locker-room presence, while also averaging eight points and six rebounds, hitting 42 percent from beyond the arc.
But that would turn out to be his last truly productive year. With Philadelphia the next season, Tucker averaged just four points and four rebounds. Since then, he’s only appeared in 34 regular-season games.
Given that he was already 37 when he left, it’s not surprising. Still, it’s fair to say the Heat let him go right on time.
