The Miami Heat are reportedly reuniting with a familiar face as they approach the start of training camp. According to Shams Charania of ESPN, free agent Precious Achiuwa is set to return to Miami for the 2025-26 NBA season. Achiuwa was initially drafted 20th overall by the Heat in the 2020 NBA Draft. Since then, he has had productive runs with the Toronto Raptors and the New York Knicks, where he made it to the Eastern Conference Finals last season.
Achiuwa’s return to Miami is timely, providing the Heat with essential depth at the center position. Although it is anticipated that Kel’el Ware will remain in the starting position, Achiuwa will likely provide significant support off the bench. Training camp will provide an opportunity for Achiuwa to compete for more court time or perhaps even a starting position.
The projected lineup for the team now includes:
– Point Guard: Davion Mitchell
– Shooting Guard: Norman Powell
– Small Forward: Andrew Wiggins
– Power Forward: Bam Adebayo
– Center: Kel’el Ware/Precious Achiuwa
Achiuwa’s comeback is particularly welcome news for the Heat, who face a challenge with one of their star players, Tyler Herro, sidelined at the start of the upcoming season. Herro, an All-Star last year, has faced significant pain during the offseason and ultimately underwent surgery on his left foot last week after efforts to avoid surgery proved unsuccessful. His absence is expected to last roughly eight weeks, presenting an early challenge for Miami.
The return of Achiuwa could help offset Herro’s absence by bolstering the team’s frontcourt capabilities and providing additional options during games. This developing story brings a hopeful note, as the team’s strategic moves during the offseason aim to address gaps and ensure they remain competitive.