Miami Heat president Pat Riley has a lot of work to do this offseason.
Although most expect the Heat to retain their big three of forward LeBron James, guard Dwyane Wade and big man Chris Bosh, but all three are currently unrestricted free agents and the Heat only have two players – point guard Norris Cole and rookie point guard Shabazz Napier – on their roster.
Now with the news that Bosh would rather seek a four-year max deal than sign for less with the Heat, Riley’s job become even more difficult.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports, the Heat may lose Bosh because of the uncertain future of LeBron James and his desire for a bigger deal.
Biggest issue for Miami could be this: How does it meet Bosh salary desires, and keep any real space for free agents? Crunch time for Riley.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) July 5, 2014
If LeBron James wants a short-term deal in Miami, why would Bosh commit long-term at a steep discount — only to get left behind later? — Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) July 5, 2014
For agents negotiating on free agents w/ Heat, so far impossible to get concrete offers b/c Riley doesn’t have precise figures on Bosh-Wade. — Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) July 5, 2014
This is an unprecedented dynamic in free agency history. Heat’s walking a wild tight-rope. If anyone can pull it off, it’s Pat Riley. — Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) July 5, 2014
Bosh put up 16.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 1.0 blocks and 1.0 steals per game while shooting 51.6% from the field, 33.9% from three and 82.0% from the free trow line.
