Back for More: Goldin Returns for Year Two

After spending his rookie season on a two-way contract between Sioux Falls and Miami, Vladislav Goldin is back in the same role for Year Two.

Whether protecting the rim for the Skyforce or earning his first NBA minutes with the HEAT, the seven-foot center began establishing where he could fit within the organization. Now, he returns looking to build upon a productive start.

Goldin appeared in 24 regular-season games for the Skyforce during the 2025-26 campaign, averaging 11.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 2.0 blocks in 22.9 minutes per game. He shot 60.5 percent from the field and led Sioux Falls with 49 blocks.

It did not take long for him to make his presence felt.

Goldin scored 23 points and grabbed nine rebounds in his Skyforce debut against the Wisconsin Herd on Nov. 21. Five days later, he matched that scoring total while adding a season-high 14 rebounds and four assists in a 129-122 victory over the Windy City Bulls.

The two performances offered an early look at what Goldin would bring throughout the season. He gave the Skyforce an efficient option around the basket, ran the floor and remained active on the glass. On the other end, his size and timing made him a consistent obstacle for opponents around the rim.

Goldin also began showing there was more to his offensive game. He connected on seven three-pointers during the season, including a 3-of-3 performance in the win over Windy City. Becoming more consistent from that range could add another element to his game and create more space for the players around him.

His rookie season also included nine appearances with the HEAT. The minutes were limited, but the experience allowed Goldin to learn from the NBA level while working within the same system in Sioux Falls.

As Miami’s season wound down in April, HEAT Head Coach Erik Spoelstra spoke about the progress Goldin had made.

“Vlad has really improved, he’s a really unique player that you just have to look at with an open lens,” Spoelstra said.

When Goldin returned to Miami for the California Classic and NBA 2K Summer League in July, the focus was no longer on making a first impression. It was an opportunity to show what had changed since the previous summer.

Across seven games, Goldin averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 2.0 blocks. His best performance came against the San Antonio Spurs at the California Classic, where he recorded 14 points, seven rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal in 30 minutes. Miami needed all of it in an 88-87 victory.

Beyond the numbers, the summer gave Goldin another chance to improve defensively both on and off the ball. Becoming quicker with his reads and more comfortable guarding away from the basket could help him handle a wider range of assignments.

The activity Goldin brings has been one of the most consistent parts of his game since joining the organization. During his first Summer League in 2025, HEAT Summer League Head Coach Eric Glass offered a simple description of the center’s approach.

“Vlad was really good for us,” Glass said. “He plays so hard out there. He plays so physical. You’d like to have him on the floor even longer... That’s why we love him.”

That effort followed Goldin to Sioux Falls. He ran the floor, fought for position and protected the rim, even when the offense was not running through him. His ability to impact possessions without needing the ball helped him carve out a role during his first professional season.

The Skyforce already know what Goldin can provide around the basket. His work to expand beyond it gives Sioux Falls even more to look forward to in year two.