Q: Ira, how do you think Mikal Bridges getting $150 million over four seasons will impact the Heat’s negotiations with Tyler Herro? – Steve.
A: This is an interesting one. On one hand, Mikal Bridges has never made an All-Star team (Tyler Herro did this past season) and has never won an NBA Award (Tyler Herro was the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year in 2022). But, on the other hand, Mikal Bridges is a far more complete two-way player, one who does not get played off the floor in the playoffs. Still, a $37.5 million average could wind up as a potential sweet spot for a Heat extension for Tyler – if he’ll take it. And, for now, with NBA negotiations typically beginning with “I’ll take the maximum,” I’m not sure that $37.5 million per season gets pen in hand for Tyler. But. yes, it is an interesting comp.
Q: After reading your recent article, it sounds like the Heat may wind up utilizing their final roster spot on Dru Smith. With all the free-agent talent still out there, why would the Heat waste our only open roster spot on someone who’s just been an NBA two-way player and is coming off of previous knee surgery and Achilles tendon surgery? – Greg, Jacksonville.
A: First, there hardly is ample “free-agent talent still out there,” particularly players willing to settle in as 15th men, with no guarantees of playing time. Plus, let’s not overlook the reality that Dru Smith was on the verge of a standard contract when he tore his Achilles last December. A Dru Smith who can play the way he was playing last December, would be a value contact at the minimum. If he is healthy. For now, that is part of the waiting game.
Q: The Heat don’t tank. And the East looks weak. The Heat have already improved the roster with the Norman Powell trade. Why not make another move and go for it? – Chadwick, Lake Worth.
A: Which they well could do. Not all NBA answers arrive by the start of August. There remain ample tradeable contracts on this roster.