MIAMI — On Sunday, Duncan Robinson opted to become an unrestricted free agent, exercising his early termination option and stepping away from what could have been his final contractual year with the Miami Heat. This decision, while significant, doesn’t exclude a potential return to the Heat. Robinson, known as the franchise’s all-time leader in made 3-pointers, could have bypassed exercising this option and secured $9.9 million from his nearly $20 million contract for the upcoming season.
Now, with his status as a free agent, Robinson can entertain a multitude of career paths. He is in a position to negotiate a renewed contract with the Heat, explore a sign-and-trade arrangement that could take him to a different team, or commit to a completely new club entirely. The NBA’s free agency period is set to commence Monday evening, making Robinson’s decision time-sensitive before the Sunday deadline hit for his early termination decision.
Robinson’s journey in the NBA is notable for its uniqueness and impact. His basketball career commenced at the Division III level at Williams College, followed by a transition to the University of Michigan. Despite going undrafted, the Miami Heat provided him an opportunity, which he seized, forging a significant role within the team.
After debuting in 15 games during his rookie year, Robinson swiftly became a crucial component in the team’s lineup. He transitioned to being nearly a permanent starter over the subsequent three seasons, achieving remarkable consistency by making at least 232 3-pointers in each of those seasons. His record of 1,202 3-pointers stands as the highest in the Miami Heat’s history. Additionally, Robinson reached significant 3-point shooting milestones — such as 200, 300, up to 1,000 made shots — faster than any player before him in the league.
Throughout his seven-season tenure in the NBA, Robinson has maintained an average of 11.3 points per game, with an impressive 39.7% success rate from 3-point land.