The Miami Heat have waived Malik Williams just one day after signing him to a contract, signaling a quick turnaround for the forward. Williams, a 6-foot-11 big man out of Louisville, had recently been brought in but now finds himself on the free-agent market again. The move likely comes as part of the Heat’s ongoing efforts to finalize their roster as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
While Williams showed promise in his college career, particularly with his size and rebounding ability, he will now have to search for other opportunities either in the NBA, G League, or overseas. Teams looking for frontcourt depth may still consider giving him a chance, but for now, his stint with the Heat was short-lived.
After being waived by the Miami Heat just a day after signing, Malik Williams will need to explore his options to continue his professional basketball career. Here are some potential paths he could take:
### 1. **G League**
– **G League Assignment**: Williams could aim to secure a spot with the Heat’s G League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce, or another team in the NBA’s developmental league. This would give him a chance to continue improving his game while staying on the radar of NBA teams. Many players use the G League as a stepping stone to earn NBA call-ups.
– **Showcase His Skills**: Playing in the G League would provide Williams the platform to showcase his skills and potentially earn another 10-day or two-way contract with an NBA team.
### 2. **Summer League and Training Camps**
– **Future NBA Summer League**: If Williams doesn’t land with another NBA team this season, he could look toward the next Summer League, where many young players and free agents get the opportunity to play in front of NBA scouts and coaches. Strong performances there could earn him another shot at making an NBA roster.
– **Training Camps**: Teams often bring in players to training camps to assess talent. Williams might be invited to other NBA team camps during the preseason or next season.
### 3. **International Leagues**
– **Overseas Opportunities**: A common route for players who are in between NBA contracts is to play in international leagues. Countries like Spain, Italy, Turkey, China, and Australia offer competitive basketball leagues with good pay. Williams could find success overseas while continuing to develop his skills in a professional environment.
– **NBA Return from Overseas**: Many players have taken the international route and then returned to the NBA after honing their skills, so this could be a long-term option for Williams.
### 4. **Potential Two-Way Contract**
– **Other NBA Teams**: If Williams can catch the attention of another NBA team in need of a big man with his size and potential, he might secure a two-way contract, which allows him to split time between the NBA and the G League. This is another way players with potential can work their way back to the NBA.
### 5. **NBA Exhibit 10 Contract**
– **Short-Term NBA Deals**: Williams could sign an Exhibit 10 contract, which is a short-term deal that typically includes a financial incentive to join the team’s G League affiliate if waived. This would be similar to what happened with Miami, but he could seek the same route with other teams to try to earn a permanent spot.
Williams’ next move will likely depend on where he sees the best opportunity to grow and showcase his skills. Whether it’s continuing in the G League, heading overseas, or being picked up by another NBA team, his size and potential still make him an intriguing prospect for teams needing frontcourt depth.