he loses minutesWhether because of the allegations surrounding him or just the way things have played out since he was dealt to the Miami Heat, they’re determined to divorce Terry Rozier. What that’s looked like so far is his inclusion in trade talks and near exclusion from the rotation. The fact that recently acquired defensive-stopper Davion Mitchell had panned out so well only put him in a more precarious position. The Heat have even gone so far to draft a popular playmaking ball-handler in former Illinois guard Kasparas Jakucionis.
Now, they’re thinking about just buying him out.
Buyout For Heat Veteran Terry Rozier Becoming Increasingly Likely
“Miami still hopes to part with veteran guard Terry Rozier even though there is said to be scant trade interest in the 31-year-old,” The Stein Line insider Jake Fischer reports. “Rozier is scheduled to make $26.6 million this season and the Heat are said to have some interest in buying him out. To be clear, though, no buyout appears imminent.”
It’s amazing to think Rozier was once one of the more heralded guards. As recompense, he signed a four-year, $96.3 million contract with the Charlotte Hornets in 2022. He’s now set to make a healthy $26.6 million in what’s the final season of that contract.
Not So Fast
Rozier is arguably at the lowest point of his career. As Miami’s the only place where he’s been a letdown, he could maybe draw MLE-level offers in free agency. Yet, his situation is complex enough to warrant hesitation on his part.
Giving up too much money from what could be his last windfall?
No. Rather than jump into those negotiations, Rozier has a more lucrative option, even if he loses minutes. Not that he’s guaranteed to get signed or playing anywhere else.
So far as the Heat are concerned, it’s not too late to hope that he can boost his value. In a what have you done for me lately league, playing well at the right time could leave as strong of an impression as playing poorly at the wrong time. For a contending team, adding a resurgent Rozier on a half-season rental could sound quite appealing.
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