Heat’s two-way signee gets real on taking significant pay cut

With the recent moves of the Heat signing Klay Thompson and center Nick Richards, another transaction was Keshad Johnson being given the third two-way contract. As the signing for the Heat sets up Johnson’s third season with the franchise, there’s no denying that some sacrifice was made in a massive pay cut.

Johnson had been on a standard contract last season, but now, being signed to a two-way, his salary goes from two million dollars to $678,882, according to The Miami Herald. However, the 25-year-old expressed that he “wouldn’t say it’s tough.”

“It’s a business,” Johnson said Wednesday, via The Miami Herald. “For guys in my position, that have been at the minimum, you’re trying to stick around as long as you can and live the dream as long as you can. I felt comfortable here with the Heat; I wasn’t ready to move on, I have a lot of unfinished business here.”

He would even say that a “few teams” offered a standard contract, stating his preference to stay with Miami.

The forward started his time with the Heat after being signed as an undrafted free agent out of Arizona, as he was teammates with Pelle Larsson, and played in 16 games his rookie season and then 32 in his sophomore campaign. Showcasing his standout athleticism in the contests, it was really displayed when he won the 2026 Slam Dunk Contest back in February during All-Star weekend.

“I’ve got to capitalize on every opportunity I get every time I step on the floor,” Johnson said.

At any rate, it remains to be seen who Johnson will play alongside in his third season in the NBA, joining Vladislav Goldin and Tre Donaldson as the Heat’s three two-way players.

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