What happened: Miami is planning a major rotation spot for Larsson heading into the 2026-27 season. He averaged 11.4 points per game last season, nearly seven more than in his rookie year, and ESPN Research had him fourth on the Heat in offensive efficiency.
Why it matters: That gives Miami another in-house piece as it sorts out a reshaped rotation for the upcoming season. It also adds context to the Heat's four-year, $60 million extension agreement announced Friday.
By the numbers: Larsson averaged 11.4 points per game last season, up nearly seven points from his rookie campaign. He ranked fourth on Miami in offensive efficiency and fifth in minutes played, signaling both improved scoring output and a larger workload.
What to watch: Training camp and preseason should show whether Miami keeps Larsson in that larger role against first-unit matchups. The Heat open the regular season Oct. 21 against Minnesota on ESPN.