The Miami Heat solved their long-standing point guard problem on Wednesday by trading for veteran Terry Rozier. The Heat are sending a 2027 first-round pick, which is lottery protected (it becomes unprotected in 2028 if it does not convey), and Kyle Lowry to Charlotte.
For Miami, this was a sensible, low-cost move that addresses its needs in shot creation, playmaking and offensive floor spacing, while still adding a pesky defender, all for a much lower asking price than the marquee point guard on the trade market, Dejounte Murray. The Heat had reportedly been involved in talks for Murray, but Atlanta is requiring multiple first-round picks, sources told Action Network.
Meanwhile, Rozier is in the 92nd percentile in scoring out of pick-and-roll and is in the 66th percentile in terms of scoring in isolation. He's shooting below average from 3-point range this year (35.8%) and his catch-and-shoot efficiency is especially worrisome at just 28%. Theoretically, his catch-and-shoot opportunities should improve on a better, sharper team, but it's something to consider.
It's also interesting as Rozier profiles much more as an on-ball creator on a team with Tyler Herro, Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo having his best offensive season.
Rozier also fits the "HEAT CULTURE" values. He came to prominence and earned his four-year, $96-million contract from the Hornets based on his play with the Boston Celtics as he contributed to a perennial conference title contender. While he's been on a miserable defense for the past four seasons, he's a pesky defender who can disrupt handles and chase ball handlers over screens in pick-and-roll action.
Miami has been in need of point guard help for the past three seasons as Lowry was never able to recapture his Toronto form.
As for Lowry, early indications are that the Hornets don't plan to waive him and will instead look to trade him before the February 8 trade deadline. However, if a deal is not reached, league executives expect Lowry to be bought out, with the Lakers among the teams expected to have interest.
This deal is likely the last major trade the Heat will make before the deadline as their roster is in a good position to make a run in the Eastern Conference playoffs for a third straight season (and fourth in five years). Meanwhile, the Hornets are expected to continue to field offers for Gordon Hayward, Miles Bridges and P.J. Washington as they look to rebuild long-term, sources said.
