Heat reportedly win bidding war over Lakers, Knicks for $19M veteran elite rim protector originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Miami Heat have had a strong week on the backend of free agency, especially after landing four-time NBA champion Klay Thompson. That was a significant pickup that made Miami a legitimate title contender.
The Heat still had two roster spots to fill and had interest in several players. One of those players was veteran big man Nick Richards.
“For those asking about internet chatter linking Heat to veteran center Nick Richards, who has been working out with Heat players at Kaseya and photographed in Heat gear: Miami has kicked around the idea of adding him (he's on the list of possibilities), but there had been no Heat offer," Miami Herald's Barry Jackson wrote.
Miami needs a reliable big man it can trust to back up Bam Adebayo and Giannis Antetokounmpo. On Thursday, the organization decided to bring in Richards on a one-year deal.
“The Heat signed Nick Richards to a one-year deal at the veteran’s minimum, per Shams Charania. Miami adds the best remaining backup big in free agency,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.
This was another big-time free-agency win for the Heat over the last week, as Richards is another strong defender and rim protector. Miami was able to land Richards despite interest from teams such as the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers.
“The Heat, Knicks and Lakers are among the teams to show free agent interest in Nick Richards. One of the best remaining centers on the open market, Richards would sign to a contender for the veteran's minimum," Sidery posted.
The Heat have cooked with the roster they have put together, and veteran leadership is everywhere. This could be the year Miami looks more like the version of itself that reached the NBA Finals in the bubble.
Richards has made $19 million throughout his career so far. He is looking to play a significant role off the bench and provide the Heat with another strong rebounder and rim protector. This has elevated Miami even further than it already was, which is a scary sight for the rest of the league.
However, this one really does sting for the Lakers and Knicks.
More NBA news:
- Rockets predicted to swap Fred VanVleet for $347M 9x All-Star to reunite with Kevin Durant
- Lakers predicted to trade Dalton Knecht for $69M veteran gamble, ex-Luka Doncic teammate
- Lakers legend reveals why ex-Warriors champion Klay Thompson chose Heat over Lakers
- Lakers original contract offer to Jonathan Kuminga revealed after signing with Timberwolves
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