This version of the Miami Heat looks far different from anything the fanbase has seen for quite some time. You still have Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro as your foundational building blocks, but there’s no clear superstar to lead everyone else. However, that could change in the somewhat near future.

If we read between the lines, it seems like the Heat could be making preparations to eventually make a play for a big-name star somewhere down the line. And in the meantime, the roster really isn’t looking half bad, either. Bill Simmons recently spoke about Miami’s current position on his latest podcast episode.

“The Miami Heat, the zombie Heat … There were a couple small things they did over the course of the summer where it’s like, I just thought that team was done and maybe should think about trading Bam and just blowing it up and starting over,” Simmons said. “There’s just kind of a roster flexibility slash identity forming.”

Miami may be preparing to bring in a star down the road

That quote is probably the most telling part of where Miami is at right now. They are not in full rebuild mode, but they are not pushing all their chips in either. Instead, they’re creating options. The Heat can go in a few different directions depending on what becomes available, and knowing Pat Riley’s history, it is very likely that he already has an idea of who he wants next.

That is why the word “zombie” still applies here. No matter how many times you think the Heat are done, they find a way to stay relevant. Even after dealing away Jimmy Butler they still remained a tough out down the stretch of last season and became the first ever 10 seed to make the playoffs.

The idea of a surprise star trade feels more like a when, not if. Miami has done this before. Think back to the summer they landed Jimmy Butler, where there wasn’t a ton of build-up. Just a sudden move that immediately changed their trajectory. The next one could follow that same script.

Until that happens, the team will keep developing its young guys and figuring out who belongs long-term, building around Bam, and staying within striking distance. It might not look like a contender at the moment, but do not let that fool you. The Heat are still playing the long game. And when the next transformative moment comes, it’s likely going to catch everyone by surprise.