Breaking: Miami Heat former no.1 open for a possible return…. read more.
For the Miami Heat, the NBA offseason has started somewhat quietly. A little too quiet, maybe. The franchise lost free-agent guard Delon Wright to the Bucks, but they were able to bring back forward Kevin Love. Although neither move was revolutionary, there is cause for concern regarding the Heat’s decline from the top of the conference given the way the Eastern Conference has developed overall.
However, Wright’s departure might present Patty Mills, the current starting point guard, with a chance to extend her contract at a cheap price.
That’s the perspective of Sun Sentinel beat reporter Ira Winderman. Winderman posted the following on Twitter/X following Wright’s exit: “So Delon Wright turned into a short-term rental for Heat.” At this moment, Patty Mills is still a Heat option. The current Heat roster lacks a real point guard.
Additionally, reporters Barry Jackson and Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald stated, “The Heat will need to find another veteran backup point guard, either via the trade market or with a minimum contract.” Patty Mills is still the go-to Heat choice for unrestricted free agents.
Patty Mills Wants to Go Back
As things stand, Terry Rozier would probably start as point guard for the Heat. Although Rozier is 6-foot-1 and has played off the ball extensively in his career, the point is his primary position.
After being dismissed by the Hawks the previous season, Mills, 35, signed a minimum contract with the Heat and is a reliable backup. He has played professionally for 15 years. In 13 Miami games, he scored 5.8 points on average, and in three postseason games, he scored 6.0 points on average.
Last month, Mills talked about a potential comeback to the Miami Heat.
According to the Miami Herald, Mills stated, “I’ve really enjoyed it and have really come to understand what this organization is really about. I’ve also learned a lot of things at the same time.”
Mills has no intention of retiring; she will compete for Australia in the Olympics in Paris this year.
“I really take good care of my body and myself,” Mills stated. “I think the objective is to keep playing until the wheels come off. I am in a great mood. I think this preparation I have right now is among the best I have ever had. I still have a few goals to accomplish.
Miami Heat Could Slip Ahead of Eastern Rivals
As for the Heat, given that other elite teams in the East have made significant changes, an offseason centered around maintaining Love and Mills would hardly inspire much enthusiasm.
Although the Knicks have improved with the acquisition of Nets forward Mikal Bridges, the Celtics will still be the favorites for the upcoming campaign. The Sixers have improved as well, adding Paul George to their roster in addition to Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Additionally, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope’s move to Orlando could help the Magic advance.
Much work still needs to be done. The Heat would have the opportunity to profit from a big blockbuster trade that included players like Donovan Mitchell, Brandon Ingram, Lauri Markkanen, and others.
However, the Heat have been silent thus far, in contrast to their rivals.
