HEAT FLIPS ROBERTS TO BLAZERS
The Portland Trail Blazers acquired guard Brian Roberts and a future 2nd-round draft pick from the Miami Heat for cash.
What does it give the Portland Trail Blazers
The young Trail Blazers have been surprisingly competitive this season and Roberts is a solid veteran backup point guard who can help them down the stretch (and in the postseason, if they get there). Additionally, Roberts' contract comes off the books this summer, opening up a little more roster flexibility.
What does it give the Miami Heat
This deal is all about the Benjamins for the Heat; not only does Miami get cash from the Blazers, this deal moves Roberts' $2.8 million off the books. That essentially helps the Heat get under the NBA's salary tax threshold, saving them from matching the dollar-for-dollar penalty that comes with going over the cap limit.
Fantasy impact
Roberts doesn't see his fantasy fortunes change much, since he'll again likely be a limited-minute reserve. Nothing changes on the Heat side either, since he didn't play for Miami.
Player focus
Miami Heat
cash considerations