Miami Heat Top NBA’s “Dirtiest Teams” List: A Decade Of Fines, Suspensions, And Controversy

The Miami Heat have emerged as the NBA’s statistically “dirtiest” team over the past decade. According to a comprehensive analysis by RotoWire, which compiled data from Spotrac’s NBA Fines & Suspensions database, the Heat lead all franchises in fines, suspensions, and games lost due to disciplinary actions from the 2015–16 season through 2024–25.

RotoWire’s “Fines & Suspensions Index” ranks teams based on a weighted formula combining total fines, number of suspensions, and games missed due to disciplinary action. The Miami Heat topped the list with:

• 295 fines
• 15 suspensions
• 43 games lost to suspension
• $941,414 in total fines
• Index Score: 2.635

While other teams like the Brooklyn Nets and Memphis Grizzlies had more fines or higher dollar amounts, Miami’s combination of frequent infractions and significant game losses pushed them to the top of the “dirtiest” rankings.

The Heat have long prided themselves on their “Heat Culture”, a philosophy built on toughness, accountability, and relentless effort. But critics argue that this ethos may have crossed the line into excessive physicality and unsportsmanlike behavior.

From on-court scuffles to technical fouls and off-court incidents, Miami’s disciplinary record reflects a team that plays with intensity, but sometimes pays the price. While these moments have fueled fan passion and team camaraderie, they’ve also drawn the ire of league officials.

Here’s a look at the top five teams in RotoWire’s “Dirtiest Teams” rankings:

Interestingly, while the Nets and 76ers racked up massive fine totals, over $16 million and $18 million respectively, their suspension counts were relatively low, suggesting more off-court or technical infractions rather than violent conduct.