Heat Explore Paths to Add DeRozan or Thompson While Guarding Mid-Level Funds
SLUG: heat-explores-derozan-thompson-free-agency-options
MIAMI — The Heat have spoken with representatives for veteran swingman DeMar DeRozan, but internal debate over spending the club’s remaining $8 million mid-level exception (MLE) is slowing progress, according to the Miami Herald.
A team source told the newspaper that at least one front-office figure prefers to let the market settle before committing to DeRozan, one of three open roster spots Miami must fill. DeRozan, 36, is coming off an 18.4-points-per-game season with Sacramento and trails only James Harden among the most productive unrestricted free agents still available. Other teams armed with full or partial MLE money have also contacted his camp, removing any incentive for him to accept a veteran minimum deal or wait deep into the summer.
Thompson Remains Top Target
Klay Thompson is considered Miami’s priority acquisition, league sources told the Herald. The Mavericks are roughly $15 million below the luxury-tax line and face no pressing financial need to move the 36-year-old guard, who is on an expiring $17.5 million contract. Dallas reportedly favors a trade over a buyout, and no workable trade structure with Miami has surfaced.
If Thompson were to push for a buyout and accept a significant pay cut, Miami would likely need to reserve most or all of its $8 million exception to help bridge the salary gap. Thompson shot 38.3 percent from three-point range last season and ranks fourth all-time in made three-pointers, addressing the perimeter shooting the Heat hope to place around Bam Adebayo and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Beal and Frontcourt Depth Also on Radar
The Heat have also checked in with Bradley Beal’s representatives, but the front office is still prioritizing a possible Thompson acquisition, the report said. Beal became a free agent in late June after declining his player option with the Clippers and played only a handful of games last year because of a hip injury. An earlier report indicated Miami is viewed as a strong candidate to land DeRozan or Beal, and possibly both.
Miami would like to add another center as well, though few quality options remain on the market. Kelel Ware, who logged 77 appearances last season, was shipped to Milwaukee in the Antetokounmpo trade, further thinning the supply of available big men.
Source: Hoops Rumors
