DeMar DeRozan just inked a one-year, veteran’s minimum deal with the Denver Nuggets, filling the hole Peyton Watson left in their wing rotation. But the real story here is not just that DeRozan found a new home; it’s the absolute gut punch this delivers to the Miami Heat, who were chasing him all summer long.
The Wild Miami Summer & Klay’s Arrival
Man, what a summer it’s been for the Heat, right? They landed Giannis Antetokounmpo, which is massive, but they straight up whiffed on several other top free-agent targets. Everyone knows it’s Giannis’ team now, so the organization’s whole mission was to build the perfect squad around him. That was the goal all through the summer. Then, over the weekend, Klay Thompson got bought out by the Dallas Mavericks and he agreed to join Miami. ESPN’s Shams Charania broke it down, reporting that “Klay Thompson is expected to sign with the Miami Heat after he clears waivers upon a contract buyout with the Dallas Mavericks, sources tell ESPN.” That left the Heat with just one final roster spot to fill as the offseason wound down.
The Starter’s Snub
DeMar DeRozan, the 17-year veteran wing, had been on Miami’s radar all summer, staying in contact with the organization. But he ultimately picked Denver. So what happened? It wasn’t a huge shock, DeRozan was always a potential fit in Miami, but a Heat insider spilled the tea: DeRozan likely chose Denver because he flat out didn’t want to come off the bench behind Thompson. Miami had already promised the four-time NBA champion a starting gig. Ira Winderman from the Sun Sentinel put it perfectly, saying, “Believe the Heat will start Klay, and believe that played into Klay’s interest in the Heat. In fact, among the reasons that DeMar DeRozan turned away from the Heat might have been the writing on the wall that Klay would take that final Heat starting spot.” It’s clear as day: DeRozan, even at this stage of his career, still expects to be a starter. That expectation definitely played a huge role in him picking Denver over South Beach.
Fit Versus Firepower
Look, there’s no doubt the Heat’s offense would’ve been better if DeRozan had joined up. But here’s the kicker: Miami really needed three-point shooting, and DeMar isn’t exactly Mr. Reliable from deep. Thompson, on the other hand? That dude is a shooter, plain and simple. His elite shooting ability is gonna be a major part of his Hall of Fame résumé. He can spread the floor for Giannis and Bam Adebayo like nobody’s business, which is exactly what Miami’s looking for. DeRozan would’ve brought a completely different offensive vibe, one that might not have fit as perfectly into their new Giannis-centric system.
So, Miami makes a choice for a starting Klay and loses DeRozan, while Denver snags a proven scorer for a steal. It sets up some seriously interesting dynamics for the upcoming season. How will Klay integrate into Miami’s starting five, and will DeRozan’s veteran presence be enough to boost the Nuggets? We’re about to find out.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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