Kel’el Ware had a pretty strong rookie season, but the Miami Heat are hoping – and betting – that this is just the beginning for the talented center. If there’s anything that has become clear this offseason, it’s the fact that Ware’s value and importance to the team can’t be questioned. Miami is all-in on Ware.

When it was reported that the Heat were unwilling to include Ware in any trade offers to the Phoenix Suns for Kevin Durant, many were quick to scoff. After all, even though Ware had a productive rookie season, he’s still far from a finished product. And, in many ways, his future is still very much a mystery.

During his rookie season, Ware averaged nine points and seven rebounds per game on 55 percent shooting from the field and 32 percent shooting from 3-point range. He started in 36 of the 64 games he appeared in for the Heat.

However, the decision to make Ware an “untouchable” asset in trade talks so far this offseason makes it quite clear how important of a player he is for Miami’s future. The Heat have made significant commitments to Ware’s future, and Ware is looking to do the same for Miami.

“They see the potential in me and they see what I can be. So my main goal is to just sort of repay that they didn’t make a mistake.”

Kel’el Ware

After his strong rookie season, Ware wasted little time getting back into the gym. According to reports, Ware has gained nearly 20 pounds of muscle since entering the league. The hope for Ware – and the Heat – is that he can put on five more before the start of the 2025-26 NBA season.

It’s hard to predict what Ware’s ceiling may end up being at his peak, but it’s clear that the Heat are willing to see out his developmental process. Considering that Kevin Durant wouldn’t have been a fix-all addition for the franchise, it’s hard to blame them.

With Ware embracing his sophomore season with a huge motivational chip on his shoulder, it will be interesting to see how Miami’s faith in him ends up paying off. Ware is the type of young player who could absolutely raise the ceiling for the team heading into next season.

As the Heat pivot toward more of a youth movement, their future is going to be marked by the development of the likes of Ware. During his rookie season, he proved to be a quality starter for the team. The Heat are hoping that during his sophomore season that he shows much more promise. If he does, the Heat’s gamble will be proven right once again.