Heat working out Kai Jones, but is he a fit?

August 14, 2025

Kai Jones, Clippers, Heat, NBA — NBAE/Getty

NBA free agent center Kai Jones is working out for the Heat this week, but a roster spot may be a long shot.

As Ira Winderman of The South Florida Sun Sentinel notes, Miami’s luxury tax situation –they’re slightly over the threshold — makes it far more likely the team adds a big man on a two-way deal than carries a 15th player on a standard contract. Jones, 24, is no longer eligible for a two-way.

The Heat often host offseason workouts for free agents, though many take place behind closed doors. Jones has also drawn strong interest from Virtus Bologna in Italy, which could offer guaranteed money and a larger role than a non-guaranteed training camp deal in Miami.

A former first-round pick, Jones played four games for the Heat last season on a two-way contract and could still be in the mix if Miami’s roster needs change before opening night.