The Miami Heat Fill Out Roster with Strategic Exhibit 10 Signings

 

In the perpetual chess match that is NBA roster construction, the Miami Heat have once again made a series of shrewd moves to fortify their training camp lineup. As reported by multiple sources, the Heat have signed four players to Exhibit 10 contracts: guard Jahmir Young, guard Gabe Madsen, guard Trevor Keels, and forward Dain Dainja. These signings, while not headliners, are a testament to the Heat’s “Heat Culture” philosophy—always seeking out undervalued talent, fostering intense competition, and building a deep roster from the ground up.

The Exhibit 10 contract is a non-guaranteed, one-year deal that can be converted into a two-way contract before the start of the regular season. If a player on an Exhibit 10 is waived by their NBA team, they can receive a bonus of up to $75,000 if they sign with the team’s G-League affiliate. This structure incentivizes promising young players to join a team’s developmental system, and for a franchise like the Heat, with a renowned G-League program in the Sioux Falls Skyforce, it’s a perfect way to identify and cultivate future talent.

This recent quartet of signings is particularly intriguing as it brings a mix of undrafted rookies, former high-round draft picks looking for a second chance, and G-League standouts to Miami. With only one available two-way spot, the competition in training camp will be fierce, a dynamic that undoubtedly excites head coach Erik Spoelstra and the front office.

Let’s take a closer look at each of the new signees and what they bring to the Miami Heat.

 

Jahmir Young, Guard

 

Jahmir Young arrives in Miami with a reputation as a dynamic scorer and playmaker. The undrafted rookie out of Maryland had a stellar collegiate career and followed it up with a strong first professional season in the G-League. Young, a 6-foot-1 guard, impressed with his ability to get to the rim, finish in traffic, and create offense for himself and others. His athleticism and burst make him a tough cover in transition and in the half-court.

His G-League numbers are what truly stand out: averaging over 21 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds per game, while being named to the G-League’s All-Rookie team. These statistics suggest he has the potential to be a high-volume offensive contributor, a trait that the Heat can always use. In a system that emphasizes ball movement and player creativity, Young’s ability to create something out of nothing could make him a valuable asset. The challenge for him will be to prove his defense is up to the Heat’s stringent standards. While he is a capable defender, the jump from the G-League to the NBA, especially for a guard, is steep. If he can demonstrate the commitment and intensity required by “Heat Culture,” he could be a dark horse candidate for a two-way spot.

 

Trevor Keels, Guard

 

Trevor Keels is a name that will be familiar to college basketball fans. A former five-star recruit out of high school, Keels played for Duke under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski. He was a second-round pick in the 2022 NBA Draft but has yet to find a solid footing in the league, spending most of his professional career in the G-League.

This signing represents a high-upside gamble for the Heat. Keels has the physical tools to be a successful NBA guard, with a 6-foot-5 frame and the strength to play a physical brand of basketball. He has also shown flashes of his offensive talent, including a 27-point outburst during his collegiate career. His G-League numbers last season were also impressive, averaging nearly 20 points, 4 assists, and 3 rebounds. However, his shooting consistency and decision-making have been areas of concern.

For Keels, this is a prime opportunity. The Heat’s development system is one of the best in the league, and they have a proven track record of helping players reach their potential. If he can buy into the program and improve his efficiency and defensive awareness, he could be a significant contributor. The Heat are taking a chance on a player who, despite his previous struggles, still has the raw talent and a strong basketball pedigree.

 

Gabe Madsen, Guard

 

Gabe Madsen, an undrafted player out of the University of Utah, is a specialist who brings a highly coveted skill to the Heat’s training camp: three-point shooting. Madsen is known for his ability to shoot the lights out from long range, having set his school’s all-time record for made three-pointers. While his shooting percentages dipped slightly in his final collegiate season, his track record as a marksman is undeniable. His performance in the Summer League, where he shot over 50% from beyond the arc, is a very encouraging sign.

The Heat, a team that has historically relied on finding shooters, will be very interested in seeing how Madsen performs. While he may not possess the same athleticism as Young or the pedigree of Keels, his specific skill set is a valuable commodity. In the modern NBA, a player who can consistently knock down open threes is a weapon. For Madsen, the path to a roster spot will be straightforward: show he can make shots and be a competent defender. If he can prove his shooting translates to the pro level and he’s willing to put in the defensive work, he has a legitimate chance of earning a spot.

 

Dain Dainja, Forward

 

Dain Dainja is a physical and intriguing prospect for the Heat. A 6-foot-9 forward who played his final college season at Memphis, he brings a unique combination of size, strength, and surprisingly soft hands. He is a formidable post player who can score with his back to the basket and is an effective rebounder. Dainja was highly productive in college, averaging nearly a double-double in his final year.

For the Heat, Dainja represents a different kind of project. The team has been looking for frontcourt depth behind Bam Adebayo and Kel’el Ware. While he may not be a traditional floor-spacer, his interior presence and physicality could be an asset, especially in a league that is increasingly moving away from post play. His Summer League performance showed flashes of what he can do, and the Heat’s renowned player development staff will be working to see if they can unlock his full potential. He will be competing with other frontcourt prospects for a spot, and his physicality could give him an edge.

 

What This Means for the Heat

 

The signings of Young, Keels, Madsen, and Dainja signal the start of an intense training camp competition. The Heat’s 21-man offseason roster is now full, and with only one remaining two-way contract up for grabs, every player will be fighting for their professional lives. The Heat’s ability to unearth talent from the fringes of the league is a key part of their success, and these four players fit the mold perfectly.

The pressure on these players to perform will be immense, but that’s exactly what “Heat Culture” is all about. It’s a crucible where only the strongest and most dedicated survive. For the Heat, it’s a no-risk proposition. They get to evaluate four promising players in a highly competitive environment. For the players, it’s a chance to prove they belong in the NBA. As training camp begins, all eyes will be on how these four prospects adapt to the rigorous demands of the Miami Heat system.