On August 13th , NBA reporter Chris Haynes reported that former Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Clippers center Kai Jones participated in a workout with the Miami Heat on Monday afternoon. The Heat's total payroll is still about $4 million away from the first luxury tax threshold, leaving them with ample room to sign a veteran minimum contract.

The Heat's current roster is relatively weak at center. While Bam Adebayo is an All-Star-caliber core center and rookie Kyle Ware had a strong rookie season, the team only has rookie Vlad Golding on a two-way contract , leaving them with concerns about rotation depth. Therefore, adding a center with NBA experience and excellent athleticism clearly meets the team's needs.

Kai Jones signed a two-way contract with the Clippers at the beginning of last season, extending his contract until he joined them at the end of the 2023-24 season. However, the Clippers waived him after the All-Star break, and the Mavericks signed him a few days later. At the time, the Mavericks were plagued by injuries, with Anthony Davis , Derrick Lively II, and Daniel Gafford all sidelined. Jones scored 21 points and grabbed eight rebounds in his debut game , quickly filling the void in the paint.

After a brief injury, Jones returned and scored 18 points and 11 rebounds against the Indiana Pacers , his first double-double of the season. Although the Mavericks' season-ending record was poor, Jones' performance exceeded expectations, proving that he still has the ability to gain a foothold in the NBA .

Considering the athleticism and defensive potential Jones demonstrated during his time with the Mavericks, if the Heat were willing to give him a non-guaranteed contract, it could be a win-win for both parties: the Heat would strengthen their much-needed inside depth, while Jones would get a stage to continue to stay in the NBA and prove himself.