:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60231545/usa_today_10712726.0.jpg)
The Miami Heat will not waive Rodney McGruder today, making his salary for the 2018-19 NBA season fully guaranteed.
Totally expected, but Heat already has conveyed to Rodney McGruder, earlier this week, that he would be retained past tonight's deadline to guarantee his $1.5 million contract. Heat remains up against projected $123 M tax threshold as free agency begins Sunday.
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) June 30, 2018
For the Heat, it seems like a very smart move. Knowing the nature of the rest of their roster, keeping a player like McGruder for that cheap is a good move. It continues their depth and allows to see his growth happen in the franchise.
McGruder started nearly his entire rookie season for the Heat, and last year missed nearly all of the season with a leg injury. This year could give the tale of what type of player he is or will become.
McGruder will likely continue to have to battle for playing time. When the Heat are healthy, they have a plethora of options on the wing, and that’s without knowing the future of Dwyane Wade and Wayne Ellington.
The Heat still have Dion Waiters, Josh Richardson, Tyler Johnson and Justise Winslow as keys in the 2-3 positions — and McGruder will have to find a role between them.
Miami could surprise us all and waive him today, but that is not expected. With the Heat probably standing pat for the most part in free agency, chemistry will be their most lethal weapon next season.
Loading comments...