Russell Westbrook targeted as Miami Heat chase LeBron James in 2026 free agency

The Miami Heat are eyeing Russell Westbrook as part of their aggressive 2026 free-agency push, with LeBron James as the top target.

What happened?

The Heat secured the No. 1 spot in the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes, beating the Celtics by submitting a more attractive deal. Miami is now hunting LeBron James and Russell Westbrook, though the Heat won’t sign Westbrook if James joins. According to the Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson, the Heat are also exploring interest in Klay Thompson after landing Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade.

Why it matters for Russell Westbrook

Westbrook’s inclusion in Miami’s plans signals the Heat’s intent to add high-profile veterans around Antetokounmpo. The Heat won’t sign Westbrook if James signs, per reports, but his name remains in the mix as Miami reshapes its roster for 2026-27. Westbrook, a four-time NBA scoring champion, would bring playoff experience and floor leadership to a Heat team already stacked with Antetokounmpo and potential James.

What comes next?

NBA reporter Evan Sidery outlined a potential trade framework involving Thompson, suggesting Miami could send Nikola Jovic and a 2027 second-round pick to Dallas for Thompson. The move aims to surround Antetokounmpo with elite shooters like Thompson, who remains a 38.3% three-point shooter in his career. Westbrook’s role would depend on James’ decision, with Miami’s front office weighing multiple star combinations.

Heat’s roster-building timeline

Miami’s offseason already features a blockbuster trade for Antetokounmpo, with LeBron James and Westbrook as secondary targets. The Heat’s pursuit of Thompson adds another layer to their plan to maximize Antetokounmpo’s driving lanes with elite shooters. Westbrook’s inclusion reflects Miami’s willingness to chase big names, even if it means passing on him for James.