Heat should regret not making top free agent point guard a priority

Other than the development and findings of more young gems this has been a disaster offseason for the Miami Heat.

The loss of Caleb Martin is a considerable blow. The pickup of Alec Burks -- though a solid and underrated move -- is not near the impactful addition Miami needed, and Donavan Mitchell extending with the Cavaliers eliminated any hope of landing a star. It could not have been a worse offseason for the Heat, right?

Instead of bringing back their own free agents, the Miami Heat could have pushed to add Tyus Jones this offseason.

Think twice because Tyus Jones, one of the top free agents left on the board, signed with the Phoenix Suns for only $3.3 million. Essentially a veteran minimum contract. The Heat and Jones had mutual interest dating back to last trade deadline, according to multiple reports, but the front office was unable to make it happen.

Last year before the Heat traded for Terry Rozier, they also looked into acquiring Tyus Jones as an upgrade at point guard. Jones last season with the Washington Wizards averaged a career-high 12 points per game while also shooting a career-high 41.4% from the three-point line. Jones is regarded as one of the league's best passers, averaging a career-high 7.3 assists and proving he can efficiently run an NBA offense.

Pat Riley and the Miami front office could deserve some leeway given the challenging cap situation and the need to stay under the second apron. No one expected Jones to sign for nearly the minimum.

However, Miami's offseason decisions to bring back Kevin Love and Thomas Bryant rather than seek outside help like Jones could be criticized. Re-signing Love is understandable considering his contributions the past few seasons as the backup center and veteran leader. But the decision to bring back Bryant is puzzling. Bryant barely played with Miami last season, only appearing in 38 games. Additionally, drafting Kel’el Ware makes the move more confusing.

Jones would’ve been a great addition for Miami, whether starting or coming off the bench and creating offense. He would’ve increased Duncan Robinson's three-point opportunities, led Jimmy Butler to his spots in the paint, and run an efficient pick-and-roll with Bam Adebayo. His presence could have significantly boosted a Miami Heat offense that desperately needs help.

The Heat will have to pivot waiting for the next star to become available, and that’s a big if. It looks like a long season ahead for Miami unless they make a big splash.