The Miami Heat and Charlotte Hornets have reached a deal centered around guard Terry Rozier (per Adrian Wojnarowski). In this trade, Miami receives Rozier (29) and sends Kyle Lowry (37) to Charlotte, as well as a lottery-protected 2027 first-round pick.
Rozier should bolster Miami’s half-court offense significantly. He’s averaging 23 points and over 6 assists per game, on above-average efficiency. In a starting unit where he’ll likely be the third option at best, Rozier’s counting stats may decline, but he will have the chance to show how efficient he can be in a well-rounded offense.
Miami’s stars, Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo should be thrilled. Adding an experienced, tertiary scoring option to this already talented group is exactly what the doctor ordered. While Lowry is still impactful as a veteran and a champion, the Heat are getting a similarly undersized and physical guard, with several years of strong play left. Rozier is competitive, and active on both sides of the ball, which will compliment the ‘Heat Culture’ team identity in Miami.
As for Lowry, his time in Carolina should be brief, if not, non-existent. While Lowry’s production has steadily declined since being dealt from Toronto less than three years ago, there are contending teams in the NBA who could benefit from his old-fashioned point guard play.
According to Wojnarowski, the Hornets will look to trade Lowry, but considering he’s owed over $28 million for this season, the trade market may not be fruitful. If a trade does not occur, teams like the Lakers, Celtics, and 76ers should be active in acquiring Lowry via the buyout market.
Perhaps if Lowry is not singularly focused on chasing a championship this season, a reunion with the Raptors could be on the table. Lowry has said that he wants to retire as a Toronto Raptor, but there is no evidence to suggest that this will be his last season, other than his age. Only time will tell.
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