Duncan Robinson becomes free agent after declining player option with Miami

Duncan Robinson is about to begin a new chapter in his NBA career. After six seasons exclusively with the Miami Heat, the 3-point specialist has decided to decline his $20 million player option to become a free agent, according to ESPN reports.

The Detroit Pistons could make a run at acquiring Duncan Robinson, per @TheSteinLine

« The Pistons, meanwhile, are likewise said to be weighing a run at Miami’s Duncan Robinson to potentially fill their sudden need for shooting in addition to the interest in LeVert. Robinson… pic.twitter.com/l362ZAgp0O

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 30, 2025

A calculated risk for Miami’s sniper

At 31, Robinson makes the bold choice to refuse a considerable guaranteed sum to explore his options in the market. This decision comes as only $9.9 million of his $19.9 million was previously guaranteed in the fourth year of his current contract.

The New Hampshire native can rely on solid statistics to negotiate a new deal. This season, he averaged 11 points per game on 44% shooting, including an impressive 39% from behind the arc on more than 6 attempts per game, all in just 24 minutes of play. With a 40% career success rate from 3-point range, Robinson remains one of the league’s most reliable shooters.

Miami in pole position, Detroit on the lookout

According to Marc Stein, the Heat should be the first organization to begin discussions with their former player, whether to negotiate a new contract or arrange a sign-and-trade. This approach would allow Miami to maintain some control over Robinson’s future while exploring trade options.

The Detroit Pistons are among the interested teams in case of a sign-and-trade, looking to strengthen their outside shooting at the wing positions. For a rebuilding franchise like Detroit, the experience and spacing provided by Robinson could prove valuable.

An iconic Heat player since 2018 with career averages of 11.3 points and two NBA Finals appearances, Robinson primarily brings « spacing with a capital S » according to observers. Although often labeled as a one-dimensional player, his ability to catch fire at any moment from the 3-point line makes him a sought-after asset by many franchises.

With Free Agency officially opening, Duncan Robinson’s future should quickly take shape in the coming hours.