NBA Rumors: With a need at the power forward position for the stretch run, the Miami Heat have reportedly worked out Jared Sullinger
There’s no question that the Miami Heat have a need at the power forward position. However, after standing pat at the NBA Trade Deadline, there aren’t many options remaining for the Heat as they begin one last playoff push.
One option, however, is Jared Sullinger. He was recently traded to and then waived by the Phoenix Suns, part of the P.J. Tucker deal.
Sullinger has cleared waivers and is officially an unrestricted free agent.
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Though, it’s no surprise that there isn’t much of a market for the veteran forward. Sullinger, after signing with the Toronto Raptors in the summer, has only appeared in 11 games this season and is only three points and two rebounds in those appearances.
According to Raptors TV man Eric Smith, Sully recently worked out for the Miami Heat. Though, no move is imminent. At the same time, that doesn’t mean one isn’t coming.
"[H/T HoopsHype]Eric Smith: Word is Jared Sullinger has had a workout with the Heat.We shall see if an offer comes or not"
Ira Winderman, Miami Heat beat writer for the South Florida Sun Sentinel, also confirmed that the Sullinger-Heat connection is real. And Winderman notes that this move would likely happen as a way to fill Chris Bosh’s roster spot, should the Heat move forward with clearing it.
Was informed earlier today that the Heat have kicked the tires with Jared Sullinger. (With possible Bosh roster spot to open.)
— Ira Winderman (@IraHeatBeat) March 6, 2017
However, according to the Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson, a workout has not taken place. Sullinger only met with Heat officials.
Sullinger likely isn’t a move that would drastically move the needle for Miami, but is it really worse than starting Luke Babbitt? If Erik Spoelstra can make Babbitt a formidable starter for a team that will likely make the playoffs, why not Sullinger?
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Plus, Sullinger is the perfect reclamation project for what the Miami Heat love to do. And at only 25, he could be worth the risk.