Former Indiana Pacers star Victor Oladipo is pushing for an NBA return, with the Miami Heat granting him clearance to work out at their facility. This update arrives as the Pacers' own recent form shows struggles, including a 121-133 loss to the Detroit Pistons on April 12, 2026.

What is the latest on Victor Oladipo's comeback?

Victor Oladipo has been vocal about wanting back into the league this offseason. Shared by Legion Hoops, Miami has been monitoring his progress. The team has officially allowed him to use their arena for workouts. This signals potential interest in a reunion. Oladipo last played for the Heat but hasn't appeared in an NBA game since suffering a severe torn patellar tendon in the 2023 playoffs.

His career was derailed by injuries starting in Indiana. On January 23, 2019, he ruptured the quadriceps tendon in his right leg against the Toronto Raptors. That began the end of his time with the Pacers. He managed nine games in the 2020-21 season, averaging 20 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. A trade to Houston and then Miami followed before the patellar tendon injury ended his run.

Why does this matter for the Indiana Pacers?

The Pacers are in a different phase now. Their focus is on the current roster and improving results. The team's recent form over its last five games is 1 win and 4 losses. They lost the last four in a row. That stretch culminated in the 133-121 defeat to the Pistons to close the regular season. Fans can track the team's upcoming schedule on our schedule page.

Oladipo's story remains a significant chapter in franchise history. He was a rising star who helped stabilize the team after the Paul George trade. His tenure didn't end well, but his peak performances created lasting memories. Seeing him healthy enough to attempt a return is a compelling narrative, even if it's not with Indiana.

What can Oladipo offer an NBA team now?

At his best, Oladipo was an All-Star and All-Defensive team guard. His career averages are 16.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.6 steals per game across 504 contests. He shot 43.6 percent from the field and 34.7 percent from three-point range. He is not expected to be that same high-usage player after multiple major leg injuries.

If he regains full health, he could be a low-risk, high-reward signing. Teams might see him as a veteran bench piece who can provide defensive intensity and occasional shot-making. The Heat, familiar with his rehab, appear to be the frontrunner. That is not yet clear if any team takes a chance on him for the 2026-27 season.

What is next for both parties?

For Oladipo, the path is clear. He must prove his body can withstand the rigors of an NBA season in these workouts. A training camp invite, potentially from Miami, is his most likely next step. For the Pacers, the offseason is about addressing the issues highlighted by their late-season slide. The team will look to build on its core and add pieces to avoid similar streaks next year.

While Oladipo may not be "loved" in Indiana anymore, many fans will root for his successful return to the league. They'll hope he can contribute somewhere, as long as it's not against the Pacers. His journey from star to injured veteran fighting back is a story worth watching as the new league year approaches.