The Miami Heat risks falling behind Eastern Conference rivals while awaiting a potential buyout, leaving critical holes at backup center and point guard unfilled as the free-agent market thins.
MIAMI, Fla. – The Eastern Conference contenders are putting the final touches on their rosters; meanwhile, the Miami Heat are stuck on Klay Thompson’s potential buyout.
It’s been reported that the organization is waiting with the anticipation of signing the four-time NBA Champion. Thompson’s current contract with the Dallas Mavericks is set to expire after the upcoming season. Rumors of a buyout have floated, but no credible reports suggest conversations are in the advanced stages.
The Heat have three standard roster spots open. Additional shooting is a necessity, but also a backup center and point guard. Free agent Nick Richards remains on “the list of possibilities,” according to Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson. Other big-man options that remain available are Kevin Love, Bismack Biyombo, Drew Eubanks, and Mason Plumlee.
Regarding a backup point guard, a reunion with Gabe Vincent has been rumored. He played a meaningful role in the Heat’s historic eight-seed run to the Finals in 2023. Other options that remain available are Aaron Holiday, Nick Smith Jr., and Jahmir Young; the organization is familiar with him, having played with the Sioux Falls Skyforce (Miami’s G-League affiliate) last season.
On Wednesday night, a couple of Eastern Conference opponents made notable moves.
The Cleveland Cavaliers reportedly agreed to a multi-team sign-and-trade to secure Peyton Watson on a four-year, $68 million contract, including a player option. As part of the deal, Max Strus was sent to the Los Angeles Clippers and the Denver Nuggets acquired an unprotected 2031 first-round pick (via CLE) and a 2032 second-round pick (via SAC).
In correspondence with these transactions, the Cavaliers redirected Tre Man, who was acquired in the Dennis Schroder trade, to the Washington Wizards for Cam Whitmore. Despite missing out on LeBron James, just like the Heat, the organization is revamping the roster while working towards James Harden’s return.
Meanwhile, Thompson is hogging the attention in South Florida.
The 36-year-old is one of the best shooters in league history, but last season could be a warning. Thompson averaged a career-worst 11.7 points on 39.3 percent shooting, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 69 games (eight starts).
After finalizing the Giannis Antetokounmpo blockbuster trade, the Heat haven’t made a transaction to the standard roster. Given how thin the free-agent market currently is, it would be better to shape up the rest of the team rather than wait for someone currently under contract.
The Heat have championship aspirations, but Thompson can’t be a make-or-break acquisition.
Anthony Aguirre covers the Miami Hurricanes, Miami Heat, and Miami Marlins for Roundtable Sports. Contact info for tips/info: [email protected] & 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
