Last season’s trade acquisition, Terry Rozier, has been cleared from an injury and will now focus on preparing for next year starting as Miami Heat’s point guard.
Terry Rozier says he has returned to full basketball activity from his neck injury, fully cleared.
— Ira Winderman (@IraHeatBeat) July 9, 2024
Miami Heat Point Guard Officially Cleared From Neck Injury
Rozier Played Up To Expectations As Starting Point Guard
Miami Heat point guard Terry Rozier is officially cleared from his neck injury and will resume playing basketball. Miami brought the versatile ball handler in via trade from the Charlotte Hornets. Upgrading the position from the 18-year veteran Kyle Lowry was the main goal for the trade.
Additionally, upon acquisition, Rozier immediately had an offensive impact and seemed to fit in well with the Heat’s two All-Stars, Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. He averaged 16.4 points per game, 4.6 assists, and 1.0 steals, accompanied by a respectable 37.1 percent from three. Notably, Miami struggled offensively for much of the 2023-24 season. The hope was that Rozier could come in and contribute from the get-go. Contribute, he did.
Neck Spasms Forced Rozier To The Bench
A few weeks before the close of the regular season, Rozier began experiencing neck spasms, which eventually sidelined him indefinitely for the team’s final 11 games. He and Butler were unable to play in Miami’s first-round playoff loss to the Boston Celtics.
It proved to be a significant loss for the squad, as they lost their primary ball handler, starting point guard, and consistent offense and shooting. Elements that Miami was, for the better part, bereft of against the Celtics.
Return From Injury and Looking Forward Playing
Rozier is expected to resume starting point guard duties beginning next season for the Miami Heat, this is a positive development considering the organization’s underperforming status. The 10-year vet told reporters earlier today that he is cleared for regular basketball-related activities.
“Doing great, feeling great. I’m cleared to play,” Rozier said to reporters during a Tuesday appearance to interact and take photos with young campers at Jr. Heat Basketball Camp at Cooper City High School. “I’ve been on the court. Shout out to the guys on the Miami Heat in getting me right. I’ve been lifting and doing everything else that I need to do. So I feel great.” — Miami Herald
Rozier also spoke optimistically about Miami’s roster. Notably, many of the Heat’s key players including star Jimmy Butler and even Rozier himself have been involved in offseason trade talks. However, the Heat have decided to stand pat and not make any moves. While many fans wanted Miami to be aggressive, this quote highlights Miami’s team chemistry.
Heat guard Terry Rozier asked today about fans wanting big moves but the team seemingly running it back:
“We want to run it back with our same team, obviously that’s what it’s looking like. We wanna show the fans what we can bring to Miami.” pic.twitter.com/2JWucOKtP4
— Will Manso (@WillMansoWPLG) July 9, 2024
The Last Word
Ultimately, Rozier’s injury update is great news for the Heat and their fans especially because neck injuries can be a nagging issue. Rozier is expected to make an even greater impact with the team in his second season with the team. Despite, not making any major moves Rozier’s presence for a full season and help the Heat rise up the standings. His importance as a dynamic shot-creating guard can not be understated.
