After another disappointing and injury-riddled campaign in 2016-17, Miami Heat forward Josh McRoberts has an important offseason ahead of him. McRoberts has been fighting the injury bug for years now and his unavailability has hindered a Miami reserve unit desperate for an extra punch.
Now, according to ESPN’s Zach Lowe, McRoberts has decided to pick up his $6M player option for the 2017-18 season, meaning he will remain under contract with Miami for at least one more season.
Not a shocker, but sources say Josh McRoberts has officially picked up his $6M player option for next season.
— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) May 23, 2017
While $6M may not seem like a lot, it could restrict Miami’s spending abilities this offseason at least a little bit. However, there could be some upside for the Heat, as the 6’10” McRoberts hasn’t suited up since December and is now reportedly healthy. Following from Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel:
Agent Mike Conley to SunSentinel on Josh McRoberts opting in with Heat, "It always been a matter of him being healthy and he's healthy now."
— Ira Winderman (@IraHeatBeat) May 23, 2017
This most recent news regarding Josh McRoberts could be a double-edged sword for Pat Riley and his Miami Heat. The organization hasn’t gotten much out of the big man in recent years thanks to his injury history. However, if McRoberts is fully healthy as reported, he could end up being of good value due to his relatively affordable contract.
With McRoberts opting in for his final year, the Heat are now also able to trade the veteran since he is no longer eligible for free agency. Hopefully, McRoberts is able to fight off any injuries next year and contribute to a budding Heat team.
