Goran Dragic has expressed his desire to return to the Miami Heat, though there remains uncertainty regarding whether this wish will come to fruition. Dragic, who hosted his training camp in Lasko, Slovenia for the ninth consecutive year, shared his thoughts with the local media.
At 37 years old, when asked about his NBA future and preferred team, Dragic did not conceal his preference for the Miami Heat. He stated, ‘My primary wish is to return to Miami.’ Dragic also acknowledged the current wait for Damian Lillard’s decision on his next destination, which has put many other player movements on hold.
In regards to potential negotiations with other teams, Dragic mentioned, ‘We are in discussions with several clubs, but more will become clear in the coming days when the news is officially released.’ He added, ‘You will see.’
Dragic provided insight into his reasons for wanting to rejoin the Heat, stating, ‘Miami is my home, and my children attend school there. It all aligns perfectly. I spent the best seven years of my career there, and returning to Miami would be the crowning achievement. It would truly be something extraordinary. We’ll see.’
He emphasized the business nature of the NBA, where results ultimately dictate decisions. Dragic acknowledged the realities of player movement in the league, stating, ‘Today you can be in Miami, tomorrow in Memphis; that’s just the way it is.’
Dragic had been a part of the Heat since 2015 when he was acquired via trade, remaining with the team until the conclusion of the 2020-21 season before being involved in the Kyle Lowry trade. Over seven seasons with the Heat, he averaged 16.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game in 391 appearances, earning an NBA All-Star selection in the 2017-18 season.
During the conversation at his training camp, Dragic also disclosed that he underwent knee surgery during the 2022-23 season. He explained, ‘I was performing well until the middle of the season, but then I encountered knee problems. Subsequently, it was decided that Patrick Beverley would go to Chicago, and I moved to Milwaukee. I also had knee surgery, a fact that had not been public knowledge until now.’
Nevertheless, Dragic affirmed his readiness and mental preparedness for the upcoming season, despite sometimes struggling to keep pace with the younger players at the camp. He concluded, ‘What matters most is that I am mentally prepared, fresh, and entirely focused.’