In his piece yesterday for the South Florida Sun Sentinel, Ira Winderman discussed Dexter Pittman, confessing he was surprised when the Heat decided to guarantee the big man's contract for 2012/13. Even with Pittman on board, rumors continue to swirl, linking the Heat to a big man. In today's Sun Sentinel, Winderman addresses a big man Miami has given up on, and the possibility of signing a free agent wing. Here are the highlights:
- While the Heat have cut players like Anthony Morrow and John Lucas III from camp in recent years, Winderman doesn't expect the team to have any regrets about parting ways with Eddy Curry. Heat coaches "know what they saw in practice last season," and it was enough to ensure the big man won't return to Miami this year.
- Asked about the possibility of Matt Barnes joining the Heat, Winderman questions whether the veteran would be willing to take a reduced role, given the sheer amount of players the Heat have at the wing positions. Although the team could use another defensive stopper, Barnes, who is said to be talking to a few clubs, isn't a likely addition.
- Winderman has similar views on Raja Bell, who he thinks could still get a buyout from the Jazz. Bell was upset with a reduced role in Utah, so it's unclear whether he'd be interested in accepting a bench role in Miami, if given the opportunity.