Miami Heat RTD: Summer League Musings

Do you think Josh Richardson has a place on the Miami Heat?

Wes: If we know anything about the Heat, it’s that they will always have room for wings who can shoot 3s and play defense. Richardson’s specialty was defense in college, and during summer league he backed up his bark. He also shot 38.6 percent from 3-point range. Richardson will be on the Heat’s 15 man roster this season.

Allana: I sure hope so! As I said here, I would love for Josh Richardson to be the Miami Heat’s backup point guard. He makes it rain from beyond-the-arc, has the hunger it takes to win, and is definitely saavy. I see no reason to pass him up.

Ehsan: I think if the Heat had a first round grade on him and got him on a second round salary, he’s almost certain to make the team. He has a good 3-point shot and can play D, always a must with the Miami Heat. I didn’t know much about him before the draft, but am falling in love with him since it. If his career follows the same arc as a Mario Chalmers, Heat fans should be thrilled.

Chris: Not as the Heat are currently constructed. Winslow, Gerald Green, Mario Chalmers, and maybe James Ennis currently sit in front of him for a rotation spot as a backup wing, while Napier’s spark in Summer League still gives the Miami staff hope that he can function as a backup point guard, leaves Richardson on the outside. Which is a shame, because I liked what Richardson showed on defense in Summer League, as he could be molded into a nice wing defender in time. A trade (*cough* Chalmers *cough*) would be his best shot at cracking the rotation. A stint overseas might be in the cards.

Joseph: I think Richardson is slightly better than James Ennis, but he may benefit from getting time in the D-League. He has potential, but he’s incredibly raw. I think with the right development, he could be a solid NBA player. Besides, the Heat don’t really need a fourth wing right now. Maybe if they trade Chalmers, then I can imagine Richardson being needed.

Kristopher: Josh Richardson would be in the same situation James Ennis was in two years ago. The promise is there and the game is there, but the space just doesn’t exist for him to be a true contributor this season. He showed great signs during Summer League, but he’s still going to have a way to go to be effective in the NBA.

Next: Favorite Summer League Player