Player exit review: Willie Reed makes big strides
By Simon Smith
What is next?
One thing is certain – Reed has made himself a lot of money this summer. Soon to turn 27 and with a still-developing game, Reed’s best years are ahead of him.
Despite having only compiled a career total of 110 NBA games, Reed is bound to receive several lucrative offers once the free-agency is in full swing. And with the Heat facing other tough decisions of their own with the likes of Dion Waiters and James Johnson also out of contract and seeking larger deals, Reed’s future in Miami is certainly not assured.
Last summer, two off-season center signings that can be compared to Reed are Miles Plumlee of the Charlotte Hornets and Boban Marjanovic of the Detroit Pistons. Plumlee signed for four-years, $52 million with the Milwaukee Bucks before being traded midseason, while Marjanovic signed for three-years, $21 million.
Despite their generous contracts, neither player had any impact this season. Over 45 games, Plumlee averaged just 2.5 points and 2.1 rebounds in 10.8 minutes per game. Marjanovic, meanwhile, played in only 35 games, averaging 5.5 points and 3.7 rebounds in just 8.5 minutes per game.
Comparatively, Reed stacks up quite well to the performances of these two backup centers this season. And with the NBA’s salary cap set to rise again to $101 million next season, teams will have money to spend. Therefore, it’s more than reasonable to expect that Reed will be offered contract somewhere in between those afforded to Plumlee and Marjanovic.
Recently, Reed reflected on his sharp rise this season:
"“I’ve grown a lot in my game, working with the coaching staff every day. The Heat does a great job of getting you in great shape. My body has changed for the better. I’ve been able to hold my ground better because I’ve gotten stronger. I’ve been a solid defender. I’ve gotten better offensively. I still have a long way to go. If I keep working, the sky’s the limit.”"
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Reed was one of a number of examples this season (Waiters, James Johnson, Wayne Ellington) whose games and body shapes improved drastically during their first year with the Heat.
But barring something unforeseen occurring this offseason, it appears Reed won’t be continuing his development under the Heat’s watch next season.