The Miami Heat watched Caleb Martin leave in free agency. He came to Miami on a two-way contract in 2021 after being waived by the Hornets. Martin quickly worked his way into the rotation and played a key role in the Heat’s run to the NBA Finals in 2023. He rejected a five-year offer from Miami before signing for less with the 76ers. Martin did not even give the Heat a chance to match Philly’s deal.
The 6’5 wing is a starter on the new-look Sixers, but it has been a rough start. Signing Paul George was supposed to make them title contenders. Instead, they are 5-14 and sit 14th in the Eastern Conference. Injuries have played a significant role, including Martin missing two games, but there have been plenty of on-court struggles.
The Heat have their own issues, including dealing with Jimmy Butler trade rumors, but they are four games ahead of the Sixers. Martin would improve their chances, but he is too busy struggling in Philadelphia on the NBA’s most disappointing team.
Caleb Martin’s regret in leaving the Heat continues to grow
Martin landed a four-year $32 million contract from the Sixers, which is $5 million less annually than Miami’s offer. He did get a starting role and more playing time, but the 29-year-old has a negative value over replacement player (VORP). He is shooting just 40.0 percent from the field and 30.0 percent on his threes, his worst marks since his Charlotte days.
Martin transformed into a 3-and-D wing in Miami. He shot over 42 percent from 3-point range during the playoffs for two straight years and got starter's minutes. The Heat are playing Haywood Highsmith more this season, but certainly miss Martin’s production.
The 76ers have an abysmal negative-12.4 net rating with Martin on the floor this season. Their 104.5 offensive rating would be the worst in the NBA, and their defensive mark would rank 24th. Those are not ideal positions for a team that believes it can contend for a championship or a player with his eyes on making a deep playoff run.
Several teams in the East are struggling to begin this season, which leaves the door open for Philadelphia to get back in the race. They are just 2.5 games out of the Play-In Tournament and 4.5 behind a guaranteed playoff berth. The Heat figure to be in that mix and are better positioned than the Sixers.
Things may get worse for Caleb Martin. His minutes may decrease if his play does not improve. He came off the bench for the first time on Dec. 3. The 6’5 wing took less money to play the same role on a worse team. Martin must play better. He will still look at the Miami Heat with envy, but he chose to turn down their offer.