ESPN predicts that Terry Rozier is the one Miami Heat player who could be moved ahead of the NBA Trade Deadline. And, well, yeah. It'd be difficult to disagree with that estimation.
With less than a month before the February 5 NBA Trade Deadline, Rozier's expiring contract could emerge as a big asset for the Heat in trade discussions, especially as the Ja Morant whispers continue to grow.
It's not a forgone conclusion that the Heat are going to trade Rozier before the trade deadline, but it's a pretty good bet that if Miami makes any type of move, it's almost certainly going to include the troubled guard.
The Heat are keeping a close eye on Ja Morant, Giannis Antetokounmpo
For now, the Heat is keeping its sights set pretty high. The rumblings over the last couple of months continue to point to the Heat looking to make a big splash via trade, and hopefully sooner rather than later.
Even though Morant is currently on the trade block and seemingly attainable for the Heat, there's a sense that they may continue to play the waiting game. Pipe dream No. 1 for the Heat remains to be Giannis.
Despite the reported interest in Morant, I can't envision Miami burning any assets that they would seemingly need to build a Giannis trade package on Morant.
And that's what makes predicting what will happen not only on the Morant front, but also at the NBA Trade Deadline, extremely difficult for the Heat.
But, again, if the Heat makes any move at the deadline, especially a big one for a player on an expensive contract, Rozier's expiring deal will certainly play a big role.
The Heat's second half outlook
At roughly the midway point of the season, the Heat are 21-19 and sitting in a familiar spot - they're currently a Play-In Tournament team in the Eastern Conference. Breaking out of this position is certainly within reach for the team during the second half of the year, but they'll certainly have to show much more consistency than they have of late.
I suppose making an upgrade ahead of the NBA Trade Deadline could also help their chances of having a strong second half of the season. And, interestingly enough, Rozier, who hasn't played any type of role this season for Miami, could end up playing a big one on the trade market.
As ESPN echoes, he's the one player to keep a close eye on for the Heat as we inch closer to the trade deadline.