Despite the fact that the Miami Heat still technically has an open roster spot, it doesn't appear that that's going to change much in the next nine days before the start of training camp. That's because the Heat may have a bigger in-season plan for that 15th roster spot.
As Heat writer Ira Winderman clearly states, the Heat would put themselves at an advantage for an in-season buyout move if they kept their 15th roster spot open heading into the season. While it would come with some rotational sacrifice initially, it could end up working out in their favor if the right veteran becomes available after the NBA Trade Deadline (during buyout season).
"At the moment, several teams have more players with contract guarantees than standard roster spots. So players will shake free, perhaps sooner rather than later. Such is the advantage of having enough room below the hard cap, that the Heat can be flexible and able to pivot when need be.”
The Heat may already have an in-season plan for their 15th roster spot
Winderman hints at the possibility that an intriguing player fit could become available before buyout season. But at the very latest, it's reasonable to believe that there will be an opportunity to add a rotational piece before the final push for the playoffs.
And it's at that point in the season that everything will begin to weigh so much more heavily for Miami.
Sure, it would be great if the Heat were able to start off the season strong. There's no question it will certainly help their momentum heading down the stretch. However, this team is going to be considered a success or failure based on what they do in March and beyond, not necessarily by how they look in October and November.
That's something to keep in mind as the Heat slowly begins to ramp up for the start of training camp.
As excited as Heat fans are for the start of the season, it should also be noted that the NBA season is a marathon and not a sprint. And that's the way the front office is likely looking at it too, which helps explain why they're not in a rush to give out a 15th guaranteed contract right now.
Because even if there is a chance that an intriguing players hits the open market in-season, it would be a shame if the Heat wouldn't be able to make a run because they decided to sign a third-string point guard.
The Heat see the vision and likely already have a plan in place for that 15th roster spot. It just may be seen through to completion until later in the season.
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