The Miami Heat have been widely criticized for their apparent plan to open up flexibility heading into the summer of 2026. Especially in the era of shrinking free agency in the NBA, it doesn't make a ton of sense on the surface. However, if recent rumors surrounding Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers are any indication, they could be making a genius move.
With the option to hit free agency after the 2025-26 NBA season, Luka is eligible to sign a long-term extension with the Lakers this summer. However, there's still no guarantee that he's going to sign the extension with the team.