Miami Heat’s Center Position Challenges
The Miami Heat are currently facing challenges in terms of depth at the center position. All-Star Bam Adebayo, who typically plays at the four or five, has expressed a preference to spend more time at the four this season in order to mitigate the physical demands associated with battling larger centers on a nightly basis. Supporting him in the center position are promising talents like sophomore Kel’el Ware and two-way player Vlad Goldin. Moreover, while the Heat plan to utilize forwards Nikola Jovic and Keshad Johnson, they are both rostered as fours, leaving a notable gap at the five.
Potential Signings
In light of these circumstances, Miami is reportedly reaching out to former Heat player Precious Achiuwa, as noted by Ira Winderman from the South Florida Sun Sentinel. Achiuwa, who was traded to the Toronto Raptors alongside guard Goran Dragic in 2021 as part of the acquisition of Kyle Lowry, has since transitioned to the New York Knicks. Following a solid showing last season where he averaged 6.6 points and 5.6 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 50.2%, Achiuwa has now entered free agency after the Knicks chose not to retain him.
Additionally, the Heat are in touch with another ex-player, center Thomas Bryant, who played the previous season with the Indiana Pacers and is now also a free agent. Despite having a roster spot available, Miami sits just $1.8 million beneath the luxury tax threshold—insufficient for securing a player on a veteran minimum contract, which complicates their ability to sign Achiuwa or Bryant without making roster adjustments.
Possible Solutions
One potential solution could involve the buyout of guard Terry Rozier’s contract. The Heat have actively sought to trade Rozier, who is owed $24.9 million in guaranteed money out of a total of $26.6 million, but they are under no immediate pressure to finalize any moves since they can waive him as late as January 10. Ultimately, Miami’s decision will hinge on their assessment of Achiuwa’s fit and value to the team as the new season approaches.
