The Miami Heat have identified some backup options they can sign if they fail to land Precious Achiuwa, but it could affect Terry Rozier’s future with the team.
The Miami Heat are preparing for what is going to be an important season for them. While the Heat aren’t contenders in the East by any means, this season can lay the foundation for their future.
After losing Jimmy Butler in a trade to the Golden State Warriors, the Heat’s competitive streak over the last five seasons was over.
Over the summer, the Heat tried to land Kevin Durant via a trade, but failed, as the superstar was ultimately moved to the Phoenix Suns.
The front office hasn’t made any major additions to the Miami Heat roster for next season. But they are considering bringing back Precious Achiuwa, and even have some backup options in mind.
Miami Heat could target Thomas Bryant in place of Precious Achiuwa
According to Ira Winderman of the Miami Sun-Sentinel, the Miami Heat are looking to bring back Precious Achiuwa as a center option for next season.
While the Heat are confident about their current center rotation, this hasn’t stopped them from approaching Achiuwa. In fact, the Heat might also target former star Thomas Bryant, who is still a free agent.
“The Heat have been in ongoing discussions with Precious Achiuwa, the team’s 2020 first-round pick, about a possible spot in the team’s power rotation, which is particularly limited at center.
“While the Heat have expressed faith in a power rotation that also could include Nikola Jovic and Keshad Johnson, they also have been in contact with possible additions.
“Another former Heat center, Thomas Bryant, also remains unsigned, a free agent after finishing last season with the Indiana Pacers.”
However, there is one major complication here, as the Heat don’t have the cap space to sign either star despite having one roster spot open.
The Miami Heat might have to waive Terry Rozier to make new signing
Should the Miami Heat decide to sign either Precious Achiuwa or Thomas Bryant, they will have to clear up some salary cap space to avoid any apron punishments.
“Although the Heat have an open spot on their standard roster, which is capped at 15 during the regular season, they currently lack room under the punitive NBA luxury tax to add a player even at the veteran minimum.
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“That has had the team concurrently investigating possible options with the contract of veteran guard Terry Rozier, who struggled last season, falling out of the rotation.
“Rozier is under contract for the coming season at $26.6 million, of which $24.9 million is guaranteed.
“Should the Heat waive Rozier, they then would have the space needed under the luxury tax to add a replacement player at the veteran minimum.”
If the Heat choose to part ways with Rozier, they should do so soon. And not just to avoid paying him his guaranteed salary, but also so he has the time to find a new NBA team ahead of the new season.
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