Veteran guard's season ends abruptly amid federal conspiracy allegations, impacting the Miami Heat's playoff roster decisions and future plans.
After being away from the league since late October, it was reported on Friday that the Miami Heat has waived veteran guard Terry Rozier. He was arrested shortly after the season opener against the Orlando Magic for alleged involvement in a federal illegal sports betting and money laundering conspiracy.
The organization acquired the 32-year-old in a midseason trade with the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Kyle Lowry, who was later bought out, and a 2027 first-round pick. The Heat were hoping that he would provide an offensive spark alongside Tyler Herro. However, as his tenure continued, there was less stability.
In Rozier’s latest playing season, the veteran guard averaged 10.6 points on 39.1 percent shooting, 29.5 percent from three-point range, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.6 assists, appearing in 64 games.
Coming off back-to-back losses to the Toronto Raptors, the Heat are officially stuck participating in the Play-In Tournament. They could sign a veteran free agent to add depth, such as Alec Burks, Elfrid Payton, Markelle Fultz, and James Wiseman, among others available. The deadline to add a replacement player is Sunday, April 12.
The organization could look to elevate one of the two-way players to a two-year standard contract and retain them for next year. The options are center Vladislav Goldin, guard Jahmir Young, and guard Trevor Keels.
Rozier’s case dates back to March 23, 2023. In a regular-season matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans, he only played in the first quarter and finished with five points, four rebounds, two assists, and a steal in 10 minutes. The ruling was due to a foot injury, but allegations came up that the 10-year veteran inflated his stats and profited by selecting his “unders.” The case is still ongoing.
The Heat received a second-round pick as compensation from the Charlotte Hornets. They attempted to utilize Rozier’s expiring $26.63 million contract as a salary filler in a potential trade, such as for league superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The team was never distracted by the case, but any hopes of making the playoffs are looking stagnant. The Heat are currently 41-39, the 10-seed in the Eastern Conference standings.
Despite past success in the Play-In Tournament, it might not translate this year. It has yet to be determined who they will face, as everyone ahead of them is fighting for position. The Heat can reach as high as the eighth seed with an opportunity to climb with a Friday night matchup against the Washington Wizards.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news! It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our RoundTable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!