After the Miami Heat got off to an abysmal start to their 2016-17 campaign, head coach Erik Spoelstra was able to rally the troops for an inspired run at a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Ultimately, the Heat fell short of their postseason aspirations, finishing as the ninth seed with a .500 record of 41-41.
Along the way of their unlikely success in the latter portions of the season, Miami was able to find some gems who played well in their larger roles. One of those bright spots was big man Willie Reed who did a more than solid job backing up Hassan Whiteside in Miami’s frontcourt for spurts.
Now after showing some potential, Reed informed the Heat he plans to opt out of his current deal and test the free agency waters. Following from The Vertical’s Adrian Wojnarowski:
Miami's Willie Reed will decline his player option and become an unrestricted free agent, league sources tell @TheVertical.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojVerticalNBA) June 1, 2017
Reed could still opt in if he has a change of heart but he would have to do so by June 29th. At 27, Reed is currently in the prime of his career and should have multiple suitors this offseason.
While his season averages of 5.3 points and 4.7 rebounds per game aren’t that impressive by any means, the flashes Reed showed while Whiteside was sidelined with injury should be what get him a decent payday this summer.
Reed can play both frontcourt positions at 6’9″ and while he may not have the traits of a starter just yet, the Saint Louis University product should be able to provide a consistent interior presence off the bench.
