Q: If Terry Rozier is ruled ineligible by the NBA. Can the Heat reclaim the draft pick owed to the Charlotte Hornets? – Rodney.
A: First, it is way too early to jump to any conclusions, particularly outcomes that have proven rare in the NBA. Yes, there are rules in place regarding contracts being voided in regards to NBA violations. But, again, there are no charges regarding Terry Rozier or any substantiated findings. So, to be clear, the Heat in no way are operating at the moment as if the ongoing investigation by federal authorities is going to result in any type of cap, tax or apron relief from the NBA. That is way too premature, and such federal investigations can linger for weeks, months, or even longer. As for the trade with the Hornets in January 2024, while deals have been voided for injury or health concerns, as with the rescinded one last season between the Hornets and Lakers, there is no after-the-fact precedent for undoing a dealt draft pick. That likely only would come into play if the Hornets had prior knowledge of something untoward. And the NBA already has conducted its own investigation and did not find anything untoward. All of that said, this could prove to be a highly unique situation that could wind up creating its own precedent. Or, with the NBA having concluded its investigation, could wind up as nothing at all from a league perspective.
Q: It seems as though the gambling investigation has significantly affected Terry Rozier’s play since coming to the Heat. – David, Fort Lauderdale.
A: There are so many factors that potentially could have been in play in regards to Terry Rozier’s struggles, beyond any investigation. There was the neck issue that ended his 2023-24 season. There was the Heat’s attempt to change his shot profile, with more catch-and-shoot attempts advocated. And there was a constantly changing role, as Erik Spoelstra cycled through backcourt combinations. Now, with the Heat having re-signed Davion Mitchell and having drafted a guard in Kasparas Jakucionis, it will be interesting to see what, if anything, is left for Terry.
Q: Personally, I don’t think we’ve done enough to be any more than a .500 team fighting for a playoff spot. – Brian.
A: Which would be a four-game improvement. And, yes, likely fighting for a playoff spot. What the Norman Powell addition did was make them more competitive. But when it comes to a playoff spot, that likely will have as much to do with the diminished/injury-limited competition in the East. Could they prove to be on par, for example, with the Bucks, Pacers or 76ers? Possibly. But we also won’t know until we know.