Heat reportedly targeting $19M elite rim protector after agreeing to a deal with Klay Thompson

The Miami Heat started the offseason on a high note by making a blockbuster trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo and immediately setting the tone for the summer. However, when free agency began, things did not go nearly as smoothly for Miami.

The Heat had their sights set on players such as DeMar DeRozan, Bradley Beal and LeBron James but missed out on each of them. Finally, on Friday afternoon, Miami was able to land Klay Thompson.

“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,” ESPN’s Shams Charania wrote.

With Thompson joining the Heat, Miami now has one open roster spot remaining. The team will likely use that spot to add another big man, and the organization has reportedly expressed interest in veteran center Nick Richards.

“There is strong mutual interest between the Heat and Nick Richards. Miami has one open roster spot left, which they plan to utilize on a backup big. Richards would help complete Miami’s new-look rotation,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.

Adding Richards would be an excellent way for Miami to round out its roster for next season. He is an athletic center who can protect the rim and provide a strong defensive presence behind Bam Adebayo. Despite the reported interest, however, the Heat have yet to make Richards an offer.

“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.

This is a significant development to monitor for Miami, as Richards could give the Heat a reliable backup for Adebayo. After missing the playoffs last season, Miami is looking to make a strong push toward the NBA Finals, and adding more depth could help accomplish that goal.

Richards has made $19 million throughout his career and remains one of the better available free-agent big men. If Miami can get a deal done, it would give the Heat another important piece as they prepare for a much different season.

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