The Miami Heat have been actively working to strengthen their roster this offseason, making several key signings to boost depth. Despite these moves, the team is still addressing areas of need, leading to reported discussions about trading Terry Rozier. As Rozier sits on an expiring $26.6 million contract, the Heat look to clear salary cap space and acquire players who better fit their current salary structure and competitive goals.

Terry Rozier, 31, averaged 10.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.6 assists last season but struggled to meet expectations, partly due to decreased playing time and time spent mostly on the bench. Additionally, Rozier’s ongoing federal investigation concerning alleged game manipulation and betting has complicated his trade value. Despite this, Miami’s intent to move him is clear, and several teams have emerged as potential trade partners interested in his expiring deal.

Washington Wizards: A Deal For Future Depth and Cap Flexibility

One potential destination for Rozier is the Washington Wizards, where a trade could send Corey Kispert, Bub Carrington, and a 2026 second-round pick (from Phoenix) to Miami in exchange for Rozier. Kispert, 26, is a sharpshooting forward who put up 11.6 points and 3.0 rebounds per game last season while shooting 45.1% from the field and 35.6% from beyond the arc. Though his defensive impact is limited, Kispert’s skill set could help replace Duncan Robinson, who signed with the Detroit Pistons in free agency.

Bub Carrington, a young point guard with promising upside, averaged 9.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.4 assists during his rookie season. With the Wizards acquiring CJ McCollum, Carrington’s minutes may decline, but joining Miami’s system could offer him significant growth potential. Both players have multiple years remaining on relatively inexpensive contracts, allowing Miami to clear nearly $8 million in salary cap space.

While the Wizards might hesitate to take on Rozier due to his poor contract and off-court issues, acquiring an expiring contract could help them manage their future salary cap flexibility. For Miami, this trade provides young talent and draft assets aligned with their rebuilding strategy.

Utah Jazz: Frontcourt Reinforcement and Salary Relief

The Utah Jazz represent another plausible trade partner interested in Rozier’s expiring contract. Having traded John Collins recently, the Jazz appear poised for a rebuilding season, where shedding salary takes precedence. Miami could acquire Jusuf Nurkic, Svi Mykhailiuk, and a 2027 second-round pick (from the Clippers) in exchange for Rozier.

Nurkic, a veteran center, averaged 8.9 points and 7.8 rebounds last season with Charlotte, offering reliable production either as a starter or off the bench. Considering Miami’s frontcourt size concerns, Nurkic’s presence could improve their interior depth. Meanwhile, Mykhailiuk, a perimeter shooter, posted 8.8 points per game on 34.5% three-point shooting last season and could regain efficiency in Miami’s system.

Both Nurkic and Mykhailiuk have contracts that help Miami reduce salary by roughly $3.6 million and include another expiring deal in Nurkic’s contract, promising additional cap space opens next summer. This trade aligns well with Miami’s goal to build a more balanced roster while managing their financial commitments.

Chicago Bulls: Addressing Frontcourt Needs with Nikola Vucevic

A previously discussed trade possibility involves the Chicago Bulls, where Miami would send Rozier and a 2027 second-round pick to Chicago for Nikola Vucevic. This swap responds to both teams’ needs—Miami wants to address frontcourt issues while the Bulls look to reconfigure their roster.

Vucevic, a versatile big man, averaged 18.5 points and 10.1 rebounds per game last season, showcasing a three-level scoring ability that fits well alongside Miami center Bam Adebayo. His offensive skills could provide the Heat with necessary scoring diversification and rebounding strength.

Importantly, Vucevic is also on an expiring contract worth $21.4 million for the upcoming season. By trading Rozier for Vucevic, Miami could save around $5.2 million in cap space, aiding their goal of maintaining roster flexibility while improving frontcourt depth. This deal represents a logical solution to two teams’ challenges.

Sacramento Kings: Adding Scoring Punch with DeMar DeRozan

The Sacramento Kings have emerged as another potential landing spot for Rozier, with rumors suggesting a “handshake deal” involving DeMar DeRozan moving to Miami in exchange for Rozier and a 2027 second-round pick (with OKC/NYK/SAS pick swapping rights). Although adding DeRozan wouldn’t solve the Heat’s most pressing roster issues, his scoring and experience could provide a boost.

DeRozan, 35, offers consistent midrange scoring, averaging 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists last season. His ability to complement Miami’s sharpshooters would add depth to the offense, creating more balanced scoring options alongside perimeter threats. That veteran presence aligns well with the Heat’s competitive ambitions.

DeRozan’s cap hit is projected at $24.7 million next season, which allows Miami to clear approximately $3 million in salary space. Although this saving is modest compared to other trade possibilities, the move could still enhance Miami’s scoring while aiding salary cap management.

Challenges Surrounding Rozier’s Trade Prospects

Despite Miami’s clear desire to part ways with Terry Rozier, the trade market for him remains complicated. Rozier’s involvement in a federal investigation related to suspicious betting activity and accused game manipulation has raised significant concerns among prospective acquiring teams. The risk of severe penalties, including possible jail time, deters many franchises from absorbing his contract and potential distractions.

These off-court issues create a dilemma for the Heat, as some teams hesitate to take on Rozier despite his expiring deal. Miami may need to consider alternative options such as a contract buyout, which would free a roster spot and provide salary cap relief without requiring a trade partner willing to accept the risks involved.

Federal Investigation Highlights Gambling Concerns

A pro gambler reportedly placed 30 bets on Terry Rozier in just 46 minutes of a 2023 game, an action that triggered the ongoing federal investigation into Rozier’s alleged involvement in game manipulation. This potentially damaging development adds a serious layer of uncertainty to his career and complicates his trade value.

This situation not only affects Rozier’s standing with the Heat but also influences how other NBA teams approach any potential trade discussions. The uncertainty around legal consequences and league disciplinary action increases the difficulty Miami faces in finding a suitable trade partner willing to accept him on their roster.

Implications for Miami’s Roster Strategy and Cap Management

Moving Terry Rozier is a key part of the Miami Heat’s plan to maintain flexibility under the salary cap and improve their roster construction. By trading Rozier for players on cheaper or expiring contracts, or acquiring draft assets, the Heat aim to build a competitive team balanced between veteran presence and youth development.

Each potential trade avenue—whether with Washington, Utah, Chicago, or Sacramento—offers different benefits, whether it be cap space relief, positional upgrades, or future draft considerations. However, the cloud hanging over Rozier’s future requires Miami to remain patient and adaptable in their negotiations.

As the offseason progresses, the Heat’s ability to execute a trade involving Rozier will significantly affect their roster shape and competitive outlook for the upcoming NBA season. Decisions made in the coming weeks could determine how Miami balances its championship ambitions with roster stability and salary cap constraints.