Heat player exit review: Josh Richardson’s up and down season

What is next?

Richardson’s outlook for next season and beyond could be decided during the initial days of July’s free agency period. Starting shooting guard Dion Waiters is out of contract, and is his future in Miami could be decided by how much the Heat are willing to spend. Further, the Heat need to decide whether to take up the $6 million option on the contract of guard Wayne Ellington.

Further, the return from injury of Justice Winslow, and the emergence this season of rookie Rodney McGruder, are other factors that could affect Richardson’s progression moving forward.

One of Richardson’s greatest strength is his versatility. Primarily switching between 2 and 3 spots, he also has shown the ability to handle the point guard duties from time to time when called upon. And if the Heat continues to field a roster not featuring a true backup point guard, this aspect of Richardson’s game could be further relied upon.

Although Richardson himself was unlucky with injury this season, he was also able to capitalize on the likes of Waiters and Ellington missing large stretches of the season. But having shot 39.4 percent from the field this season, his shooting consistency is going to need to improve drastically, regardless of the level on the defensive end.

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Put simply, if Richardson can round out his jump shot, and touch wood stay healthy, he can certainly have a long and fruitful career with the Heat.