Kofi Inkoom
Miami Heat forward Caleb Martin is choosing to decline his $7.13 million player option for the 2024/25 season, deciding instead to become an unrestricted free agent, as reported by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. Additionally, according to Ira Winderman , Martin will not be returning to the Heat next season.
Similarly, Miami big man Thomas Bryant is also opting out of his player option, seeking unrestricted free agency. Anthony Chiang of The Miami Herald adds that Bryant, who had an option worth around $2.85 million, will not be coming back either.
Martin’s move is not unexpected. He ranked 23rd on HoopsHype’s list of the top 50 free agents this summer. While his stats from the 2023/24 season (10.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game) may not be eye-catching, his versatility makes him a valuable asset for any team.
The 28-year-old wing excels as a shooter (with a .368 three-point percentage over his three years in Miami) and as a flexible defender, likely attracting interest from several teams offering more than his option salary.
On the other hand, Bryant’s decision was less predictable. The Heat had hoped he would serve as a reliable backup to Bam Adebayo when they signed him last summer, but the fit was less effective than anticipated.
Bryant averaged 5.7 points and 3.7 rebounds in just 11.6 minutes per game over 38 appearances. While he may not secure offers above the league minimum in free agency, it’s understandable that he wants to find a team where he might have a bigger role.
Of the four Heat veterans with player options this week, only Josh Richardson decided to opt-in. Martin, Bryant, and Kevin Love all declined their options, though Love is still considered likely to stay in Miami.