In the middle of the NBA season, the Miami Heat are in the 7th position in the Eastern Conference standings. After acquiring Terry Rozier from the Charlotte Hornets via trade, the team might be looking to add one more piece to their roster from the free agency pool, that can contribute and help them make another run at the Finals, just like last year. With the Trade Deadline gone, the Heat could look into the buyout market before it’s too late.
1. Cory Joseph
Cory Joseph, recently waived by the Spurs after being traded from the Warriors before the deadline, emerges as a potential target for the Miami Heat in the buyout market. Joseph’s season statistics stand at 2.4 points, 1.6 assists, and 1.2 rebounds.
Known for his defensive capabilities and playmaking skills, Joseph could offer the Heat a reliable option as a backup point guard. His modest scoring output may not be the highlight, but his ability to facilitate and contribute on the defensive end could address Miami’s need for a defensive-minded
Cory Joseph brings a different skill set, focusing more on facilitating and defensive stability rather than scoring. The Heat would need to assess how Joseph’s strengths align with their current roster dynamics and strategic objectives.
2. Furkan Korkmaz
Furkan Korkmaz, recently waived by the Philadelphia 76ers post-deadline, emerges as another potential free-agent target for the Miami Heat this season. The Turkish forward’s season statistics stand at 2.5 points per game, 0.9 rebounds, and 0.7 assists.
Despite relatively modest numbers, Korkmaz brings a specific skill set that could be valuable for the Heat. His perimeter shooting and floor-spacing abilities could provide additional scoring options, a crucial aspect for a team looking to bolster its offensive efficiency.
While Korkmaz’s scoring output may not be eye-catching, his potential impact extends beyond the box score. The threat of his three-point shot can stretch opposing defenses, creating opportunities for teammates and complementing Miami’s offensive schemes.
Defensively, Korkmaz may need to adapt to Miami’s system, but his length and athleticism could be assets in contributing to the team’s overall defensive efforts.
Considering his recent availability in the buyout market, the Heat could explore how Korkmaz fits into their rotation and whether he can provide the necessary offensive spark and defensive contributions off the bench.
As with any potential acquisition, the Heat will need to evaluate their roster needs, available cap space, and the overall fit of Furkan Korkmaz within their team dynamics. If the pieces align, Korkmaz could prove to be a valuable addition to the Miami Heat’s lineup as they navigate the remainder of the season and playoff aspirations.
3. Frank Ntilikina
Frank Ntilikina, recently waived by the Hornets post-deadline after only five games in the current season, emerges as a potential solution for the Miami Heat’s need for a defensive-minded point guard. Ntilikina’s statistics for the season are modest, averaging 1.0 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 0.8 assists.
While his offensive production may be limited, Ntilikina is known for his defensive prowess, and this could address the Heat’s requirement for a backcourt defender. His ability to guard multiple positions, particularly opposing point guards, could bring a valuable dimension to Miami’s defensive strategies.
In a backcourt featuring Tyler Herro and Terry Rozier, Ntilikina’s primary role would likely be focused on defensive assignments and providing a stabilizing presence on that end of the floor. This defensive emphasis aligns with the Heat’s established culture of toughness and tenacity.
Offensively, Ntilikina’s playmaking contributions may be limited, but his ability to run the offense and make smart decisions could provide the Heat with a reliable ball handler, allowing Herro and Rozier to focus more on scoring.
Given his recent availability in the buyout market, the Heat could assess whether Ntilikina fits into their system and contributes to the team’s defensive identity. The relatively low-risk move could provide Miami with an additional defensive tool for specific matchups and rotations.
As with any potential acquisition, the Heat will need to carefully evaluate their roster dynamics, cap considerations, and how Ntilikina’s skill set aligns with the team’s overall objectives. If deemed suitable, Frank Ntilikina could offer the defensive stability the Miami Heat are seeking in their backcourt rotation.
4. Davis Bertans
Davis Bertans, who was traded from Oklahoma City to Charlotte, is now a potential candidate to be waived, although the move hasn’t occurred yet. With season statistics of 3.3 points, 0.7 rebounds, 0.6 assists, and an impressive 38.5% three-point shooting percentage, Bertans presents an interesting option for teams looking to bolster their perimeter scoring.
Known for his sharpshooting ability, Bertans could be a valuable addition to the Miami Heat, particularly as they aim to enhance their three-point shooting capabilities. His proficiency from beyond the arc could provide spacing for the offense, creating opportunities for other players, including the likes of Tyler Herro and Terry Rozier.
While Bertans’ rebounding and playmaking numbers are relatively modest, his primary strength lies in his ability to stretch the floor and contribute as a spot-up shooter. This skill set aligns with the modern NBA, where three-point shooting is highly valued.
Defensively, Bertans may not be an elite stopper, but his offensive contributions could potentially outweigh any defensive limitations. Miami, with its strong defensive culture, could find ways to maximize his strengths within their system.
Considering his potential availability in the buyout market, the Heat could explore whether Bertans fits into their offensive schemes and contributes to their scoring needs. The decision to pursue him would depend on Miami’s assessment of how he aligns with their roster dynamics and the specific role they envision for him.
5. Robin Lopez
Robin Lopez, recently waived by the Milwaukee Bucks, emerges as a potential option for the Miami Heat in the buyout market. Lopez’s season statistics stand at 1.1 points, 0.3 rebounds, and 0.3 assists.
Primarily known for his interior presence and defensive capabilities, Lopez could provide the Heat with valuable depth in the frontcourt. Despite his limited offensive output, his experience and rim-protecting skills could offer Miami a reliable option for specific matchups and defensive rotations.
Robin Lopez brings a contrasting skill set, focusing more on defense and interior presence rather than perimeter scoring. The Heat would need to evaluate how Lopez’s strengths align with their current roster dynamics and strategic objectives.
As with any potential acquisition, the Heat will need to consider cap space, team chemistry, and the overall fit of Robin Lopez within their system. If Miami determines that Lopez’s defensive attributes and experience meet their needs for frontcourt depth, he could become a valuable addition to their rotation for the remainder of the season.
