The Miami Heat are facing an unexpected challenge even before the 2025-26 NBA season tips off. Star guard Tyler Herro has undergone successful left ankle surgery and is expected to be sidelined until at least mid-November, marking a significant blow to the team`s aspirations for a strong start.
A Crucial Absence: The Herro Impact
At 25 years old, Tyler Herro isn`t just a promising talent; he`s a proven scorer and playmaker, particularly vital to the Heat`s offensive scheme. Last season saw Herro elevate his game to new heights, averaging career bests in several key categories:
- Points: 23.9 per game
- Assists: 5.5 per game
- Field Goal Percentage: 47.2% (a career high)
His impressive performance also earned him his first All-Star selection, solidifying his role as a foundational piece for the franchise. Losing such a dynamic scorer for the opening weeks of a new campaign is never ideal, especially for a team that has found itself exiting the playoffs in the first round for two consecutive seasons. One might even suggest the basketball gods enjoy a bit of dramatic timing, ensuring the Heat`s “Heat Culture” is tested right from the jump.
The Road to Surgery: Ankle Discomfort Becomes a Problem
Herro`s ankle issues weren`t a sudden development. Reports indicate he experienced discomfort during offseason workouts. Initially, the team attempted non-surgical interventions, including platelet-rich plasma and cortisone injections, hoping to resolve the issue before training camp commenced on September 30. However, when the discomfort persisted, surgery became the only viable path forward. The procedure was successful, but the eight-week recovery timetable means Herro will miss critical early-season matchups.
Adding another layer of complexity, Herro is slated to earn $31 million this season and becomes eligible for a contract extension on October 1. While the surgery doesn`t immediately jeopardize his long-term prospects, it certainly puts a pause on any immediate discussions as both player and team focus on rehabilitation.
Who Steps Up? Norman Powell and the Heat`s Depth
With Herro unavailable, the spotlight now shifts to veteran guard Norman Powell. Acquired in a three-team trade during the summer, Powell is expected to slide into Herro`s starting spot alongside mainstays like Bam Adebayo and the newly integrated Andrew Wiggins and Kel`el Ware.
Powell brings a valuable skill set to the Heat, particularly his perimeter shooting. He`s maintained a reputation as one of the league`s more efficient long-range shooters, hitting 41.8% from beyond the arc last season. This marks the third time in the past four seasons he`s connected on at least 40% of his three-point attempts, providing some much-needed offensive firepower in Herro`s absence.
Season Outlook: Navigating the Early Waters
The Heat, who currently hold the tenth-best odds to win the Eastern Conference, will open their season on October 22 against the Orlando Magic. Herro`s injury adds a layer of uncertainty to a team that is keen to rebound from recent playoff disappointments. While the Heat`s organizational resilience is well-documented, starting the season without a player of Herro`s caliber is a significant hurdle.
The initial weeks of the season will be a true test of Miami`s depth and adaptability. How effectively Norman Powell and others can fill the void left by Herro will largely determine the Heat`s footing as they navigate the competitive Eastern Conference. Fans will undoubtedly be counting down the days until mid-November, eager for the return of their All-Star guard and a full-strength Miami squad.
