Free agent forward Simone Fontecchio has returned to the Miami Heat on a one-year deal, ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania first reported hours before the start of free agency.
The deal will be a one-year minimum contract, which will count for $2.5 million against the Heat salary cap in 2026-27.
This comes on the heels of Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald reporting Monday that Fontecchio, 30, had the “best chance” of returning among the Heat free agents.
The fourth-year veteran had an up-and-down season with Miami last season, averaging 8.5 points and 3.0 rebounds on 41.2 percent shooting, including 37.5 percent from 3-point range. He ended the season on a strong note, however, knocking down 43.2 percent of his 4.1 triple tries over his final 18 games.
As the Heat continue to fortify their roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, they need shooting. That has always been Fontecchio’s best skill, when healthy. He’s also not a poor rebounder or team defender for his size.
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It wasn’t long but welcome back lol, now gotta fill the cracks in-between.
Good move. The price is right, one less slot to fill plus he’s a 3 point shooter. Check, check, check.
I thought Fonzi’s season was mostly ups. He was very solid most times he was used and had a few really good games. I’m glad he’s coming back.
Thats a good signing.
Good for the price (supposedly a vet minimum). Shooting is what the Heat need, but Simone’s size and defense is a nice plus
One shooter down. For a vet min this is okay. I expect more news today if this went down this early.
Simone was inconsistent, but at vet minimum, knowing the team and offense, this is a good signing and solid value.
I’m assuming Simone resigned for the vet minimum (I HIGHLY doubt he’d get more than that on the open market). Not a bad signing for the Heat now that the rotation at the 3/4 has opened up a bit. With Portis in the rotation, he won’t be called to play the 4 or 5 out of necessity anymore and can play at his natural position more. If he can step in when called upon and hit 3s at an average clip (37%) then not a bad roster filler for the min. His presence also can help motivate Jovic to play better if we end up keeping him.
Good points!