The Miami Heat could trade Terry Rozier without worrying about a void, given recent examples.
As the Miami Heat get plenty of time to relax, regroup, and seek redemption after losing the last four consecutive games, Terry Rozier's contract remains on the books. The 31-year-old has been away from the team and the league, currently on leave, after being arrested due to alleged involvement in an FBI investigation into illegal sports betting. On Monday, Dec. 8th, he pleaded not guilty to both charges of federal conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.
The case could very well last even after the conclusion of this season, which is when his $26.64 million contract is set to expire. However, while it continues to take up the Heat's cap space, the league has provided no clarity to the organization on whether or not his salary could be used in potential trades.
A great example would be if Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo were to be available to move. It was reported that they wouldn't receive an answer until the principles of a deal were agreed upon and presented to the league, which is insane within itself.
However, there may be a chance that the Heat don't get blackballed from trading Rozier's contract.
In a recent episode of "The Hoop Collective" podcast, part of the ESPN network and hosted by Brian Windhorst, Tim MacMahon, and Tim Bontemps, they brought up similarities with another player getting in trouble with the law.
In the summer of 2023, Kevin Porter Jr. was arrested in New York City due to assault and strangulation charges. He was a member of the Houston Rockets at the time; his contract was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder, who then waived his salary. It happened months before the veteran guard accepted a plea deal.
"While there hasn't been a definitive answer," Bontemps said. "I think it's safe to say that the likely answer is Terry Rozier would be able to be traded. Given where the Heat are sitting and there could be big-name players available between now and the trade deadline, having a $26 million expiring contract to put into trades is a relevant thing to pay attention."
The Heat clearly weren't made aware of the gambling issues when they first occurred in 2023, when Rozier was a member of the Charlotte Hornets. He was investigated by the league internally, and while there was no proof of wrongdoing, Commissioner Adam Silver alluded to him never being "cleared," which makes the situation worse than it already is.
It's been reported that the organization will operate as if Rozier can be traded, which shouldn't stop them from being aggressive on the trade market if the right deal approaches.
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