Q: Ira, trading an aging, under-performing Kyle Lowry for Terry Rozier now gives the Heat four 20-point scorers as starters, and a guy who plays multiple positions well, including point guard. They did so without losing any real assets, as they would have with other trades. There is no downside here. Is he the “whale” we’ve all been waiting for? – Bill, Palm Beach Gardens.
A: Most certainly not a whale, nor even an All-Star. But with so much of an investment in Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebyo and Tyler Herro, I’m not sure there would have been room for a whale or even a bigger fish. But do not discount the dealing of a first-rounder that could become unprotected. By making the Terry Rozier move, the Heat currently have only one future first to put into play, effectively removing them from orca mode. And it also means that Lowry’s expiring contract was not flipped for an All-Star. So a subtle move. But not one without risk.
Q: Ira, what next? – Leo.
A: Keep an eye on Caleb Martin, who either could be flipped for another piece or possibly for draft capital. If, in fact, the Heat deal Caleb, they could move to a lower position against the luxury tax that could open further personnel doors, including a possible move at the March 1 buyout deadline for a large-contract player, similar to the move last February for Kevin Love. So there still is plenty in play for the Heat ahead of the Feb. 8 NBA trading deadline.
Q: If it wasn’t Damian Lillard, this feels like a nice alternative in the end. – Kris Oceanside, Calif.
A: I’m not sure I would consider Terry Rozier a Damian Lillard consolation prize. In fact you could make the argument that the consolation prizes for not dealing with the Trail Blazers for Lillard were retaining Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola Jovic and Tyler Herro. But based on the price, the Heat got ample value with this trade. What matters most is the Heat are better today than before the Rozier trade. As for down the road, that’s Andy Eliburg’s headache.