The Miami Heat have remained in the dark about Terry Rozier's trade eligibility.
The way the Miami Heat have handled the Terry Rozier situation displays the strong leadership within the organization. A couple of months have passed since the 31-year-old was arrested due to alleged involvement in illegal sports gambling, also part of an FBI investigation. Also, Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups and former Los Angeles Lakers assistant coach Damon Jones were other figures involved.
Rozier has been away from the Heat since, on what was originally paid leave, until it was reported that his payment will be withheld until the case reaches a verdict. However, the 11-year veteran's $26.63 million expiring contract is still occupying the organization's cap space. They're not expected to receive any financial relief, especially with the case likely to drag out after the season.
That may leave you to ask: "Why not just trade him?"
It was reported that the Heat haven't received the "all clear" on whether they can use Rozier's contract in any potential deal. They still don't know, but an updated report indicates that the front office would only get a ruling once the principles of any trade are agreed upon.
Given the latest headlines with Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Heat are expected to have an interest in the former Finals MVP if he becomes available on the trade market. They would surely wish to use Rozier's contract to match salaries, but that would leave the potential deal in jeopardy of the league's ruling.
There's currently no explanation for why the Heat won't get any clarity on the situation. Frankly, it's rather suspicious. Keeping a franchise in the dark about an issue that was bestowed upon them after a midseason trade a year prior appears to only lead to sabotage.
Rozier will appear in court today, along with his attorney Jim Trusty, and is expected to fight all charges.
The Heat should know more about the situation, especially with the business side of basketball, as the season was going to continue whether or not the scandal would've been brought to light. If Rozier is the only obstacle to acquiring a superstar still in his prime, it's a complete travesty and an injustice, especially for a potential championship contender.
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