Terry Rozier’s name is back in NBA conversations - but not for the reasons Heat fans were hoping when Miami acquired him a year ago. As the February 5 trade deadline approaches, Rozier has become one of the more complicated figures on the market, both because of his off-court situation and the financial implications tied to his contract.
Rozier has been away from the Miami Heat since October 23, when he was placed on indefinite unpaid leave following an indictment on federal charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. He pleaded not guilty in December, but the legal process remains ongoing. The NBA and the Heat have kept him sidelined during the investigation, which stems from an alleged sports gambling scheme involving player props from previous seasons.
Even with the uncertainty surrounding his future, Rozier’s $26.6 million expiring deal is still viewed as a potential trade chip. ESPN’s Bobby Marks recently identified Rozier as Miami’s “player to watch” heading into the deadline - and for good reason.
The Heat chose not to waive Rozier before the January 7 guarantee date, a move that would’ve saved them $1.7 million and freed up a roster spot. That decision suggests Miami is keeping all options open, possibly eyeing a deal that could help them retool for the stretch run.
From a basketball standpoint, Rozier’s career has been a steady climb. Drafted 16th overall by the Boston Celtics in 2015, he cut his teeth as a high-energy guard off the bench before making a name for himself during the Celtics’ 2018 playoff run. That postseason, he stepped into a larger role and delivered, showing flashes of the scoring and playmaking ability that would define his next chapter.
His move to the Charlotte Hornets in 2019 gave him the keys to a bigger offensive role, and Rozier responded with multiple seasons averaging over 20 points per game. He became known for his quick first step, fearless shot selection, and clutch scoring - traits that made him a valuable asset in the backcourt.
When Miami traded for Rozier in January 2024, the hope was that he’d provide a scoring spark and secondary playmaking behind Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro. But things never quite clicked. In a disappointing 2024-25 campaign, Rozier averaged just 10.6 points per game before being sidelined.
Now, with just one game played this season and his legal status unresolved, Rozier’s future is murky. But his contract - a sizable expiring deal - could still hold value for teams looking to clear cap space or balance out a trade package. That’s why Miami is holding onto him for now, even if he’s unlikely to suit up again in a Heat uniform.
Across 11 seasons, Rozier has logged 665 games and averaged 13.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. He’s been a spark plug, a starter, and at times, a go-to scorer. But at this point in his career, his next move may be determined more by off-court developments than on-court production.
As the trade deadline nears, Rozier remains a name to watch - not because of what he’s doing on the court, but because of what his contract might unlock for a team looking to make a move.