Miami Heat Add Towering Presence with 7’1” Vlad Goldin on Two-Way Contract
The Miami Heat continue to reshape their frontcourt with an intriguing blend of potential and size, officially signing 7-foot-1 center Vlad Goldin to a two-way contract. The move brings significant size and rim presence to South Beach, adding a developmental piece who could pay major dividends down the road.
Goldin, a native of Russia, made a name for himself at Florida Atlantic University, where he was a cornerstone of the Owls’ remarkable Final Four run in 2023. Known for his interior defense, soft hands, and high basketball IQ, Goldin offers the type of size that the Heat roster has often lacked in recent years. While Miami is known for its “small-ball” toughness, adding a true 7-footer to the mix provides Erik Spoelstra with fresh options in the paint—especially against size-heavy Eastern Conference rivals.
During his junior season at FAU, Goldin averaged 15.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game, while shooting an impressive 63% from the field. He’s not just a lane-clogging shot blocker—he’s a nimble, skilled big who can finish around the rim and operate within a team-centric offensive scheme. He was pivotal to FAU’s pick-and-roll execution, showing excellent chemistry with guards and an instinctive ability to time his rolls and finish with authority.
The two-way contract allows Goldin to split time between the Miami Heat and their G League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce. This structure gives the Heat the flexibility to develop him in a controlled environment while giving him opportunities at the NBA level when needed. Miami has found value in two-way players in the past—most notably Duncan Robinson and Caleb Martin, who both rose through that path to become key contributors on deep playoff runs.
What separates Goldin from many other big men is his mobility and willingness to adapt. Despite his size, he runs the floor well, which fits perfectly with the Heat’s high-energy style. While his offensive game is mostly confined to the paint, his ability to impact the game as a rebounder and shot deterrent could earn him quick minutes off the bench, especially in matchups where size becomes a premium.
The Heat have long valued grit, work ethic, and defensive toughness—traits Goldin appears to embody. He may not have the national spotlight that lottery picks do, but Goldin represents a classic Miami Heat move: find overlooked talent, develop it rigorously, and maximize every ounce of potential.
In a league where size still matters—especially come playoff time—adding a 7’1” center with Goldin’s upside is a smart gamble. Miami’s player development program is among the NBA’s best, and if Goldin can add strength and polish his footwork, he could become more than just a rotational piece.
For now, South Beach gets bigger, tougher, and maybe a little more unpredictable. Vlad Goldin is in the building—and he just might be the next Heat success story.
