How Will The Miami Heat Replace Chris Bosh?
By Wes Goldberg
With Chris Bosh likely missing substantial time with what is feared to be a blood clots in his lungs, our thoughts are with him and his health. You can read a newest update on his condition here.
As the Heat start the final lap of the season, the show must go on as the team makes a push for the playoffs.
By trading Danny Granger, Shawne Williams and Justin Hamilton in the deal that netted the Heat Goran Dragic, the team doesn’t have a clear answer as to who will replace Bosh.
With two additional roster spots, the Heat called up Henry Walker from the Sioux Falls Skyforce on a 10-day contract Friday.
That means the Heat have one other roster spot they can use to try to replace Bosh. They’ll be looking to sign a stretch-4 type, or at least a power forward with some shooting ability.
Pat Riley will likely look towards to buy out market, where guys like Andrei Kirilenko, Larry Sanders, Thomas Robinson, Kendrick Perkins, John Salmons, Tayshaun Prince or possibly Andrea Bargnani could be available.
In his younger days, Kirilenko could play some stretch-4, but he’s faced injury issues the last few years. That may be something the Heat want to stay away from. Salmons and Prince could play a small 4 but are far past their primes and may not be ready for heavy minutes.
Thomas Robinson is an interesting candidate. He’s not what Bosh is in regards to a triple threat offensive player, but he was shooting 52 percent for the Portland Trail Blazers this season and he’s a plus defender with terrific athleticism.
According to ESPN’s Jeff Goodman, Robinson is looking for a bigger role and the Heat may be the team to offer it.
Thomas Robinson verbally agrees to buyout w/Nuggets, source told ESPN. Robinson in search of expanded role. Wasn't going to happen in Denver
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) February 20, 2015
Beyond the buyout candidates, the Heat could turn their attention to a familiar name–Michael Beasley, something we talked about on the latest Heat Check podcast. Beasley said he would welcome a return to Miami after playing in China this last season.
The Heat could also sign Andray Blatche, who the team was interested in during the summer but ultimately didn’t sign. With both of those guys, the Heat are dealing with potential baggage.
Other free agents include Al Harrington, Earl Clark, Tyrus Thomas, Austin Daye and Jordan Hamilton.
For now, the Heat will likely use Udonis Haslem in big lineups or Deng and Ennis in smaller lineups. It’s now a glaring need for the Heat and something they will address soon.
Next: How Goran Dragic Will Help The Heat's Struggling Offense