Duncan Robinson, a forward for the Miami Heat, has made the decision to opt out of his contract for the 2025/26 NBA season in order to become an unrestricted free agent. This announcement comes from ESPN’s Shams Charania, who noted that Robinson aims to collaborate with the team in pursuing a new deal or potentially exploring other opportunities.
Rather than having a traditional player option, Robinson held an early termination option, which allows him to terminate his current contract early rather than simply opting out. By choosing this route, Robinson avoids the $19.9 million contract, which would have seen $9.9 million become partially guaranteed, putting pressure on the Heat to either secure the remaining $10 million or release him to create cap space.
His decision to opt out means that he does not have any guaranteed money for the upcoming season. However, the Miami Heat have the chance to negotiate a more favorable multiyear deal for Robinson, potentially allowing him to earn more than the initially guaranteed $9.9 million. Reports indicate that a new three-year contract may be a possibility, ensuring Robison remains with the franchise he has contributed to significantly.
Robinson is widely recognized as one of the NBA’s top three-point shooters, attempting an average of 7.2 shots from beyond the arc per game throughout his career, with a commendable success rate of 39.7%. In the most recent season, he produced averages of 11.0 points, 2.4 assists, and 2.3 rebounds, showcasing his skills during his 74 appearances.
Furthermore, Robinson’s decision positively impacts the Heat’s financial flexibility, moving them from $8 million above the projected luxury tax line to $12 million below it. This newfound cap space provides Miami with numerous options, including the ability to sign Robinson to a new contract or pursue potential additions through trades or the mid-level exception.
Robinson’s move sets the stage for an exciting offseason for the Heat, offering them the opportunity to enhance their roster while retaining a key player recognized for his sharpshooting abilities. As negotiations unfold, fans can remain hopeful about the potential for Robinson to stay in Miami and continue contributing to the team’s success.