Heat Bringing In More Players?

By: Tyler Ward

There could be more players joining the second version of the "Big Three" in Miami. It was reported today that the Heat have offered swingman Mike Miller to a 5 year deal worth somewhere between $27 and $30 million. If LeBron James announces tonight that he will sign with the Heat, it will almost be a lock that Miller goes to Miami.

The Knicks and Clippers are also pursuing Miller, but he could accept the Heat's enticing offer to play with three of the best players in the NBA right now. Miller, the 2000-01 Rookie of the Year, played for Washington last year, averaging 10.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists. In the 2006-07 season, he won the Sixth Man of the Year award with the Memphis Grizzlies, averaging almost 19 points per game.

If Miami does sign Miller, he can contribute to the team off the bench. They will for sure have Bosh and Wade in Miami, with LeBron almost certainly following in their footsteps. There have been rumors swirling around Michael Beasley, so he may not be on their roster this year. Other than Beasley, they just have point guard Mario Chalmers under contract with the rookies consisting of Jarvis Varnardo, Da'Sean Butler, and Dexter Pittman. They may have one of the best benches in the league with Miller and the three rookies coming off the pine (if they sign a big man to team up with Bosh).

In his ten years in the NBA, Miller has played for Orlando, Memphis, Minnesota, and Washington. He has career averages of 13.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.

There was also a rumor today that Dwyane Wade is trying to convince the Heat to bring back point guard Jason Williams. Williams, who played for the Heat during their title run in 05-06, was on the Magic roster last year and is now a free agent. However, according to one report, the Heat are trying to make a deal to bring Andre Miller to Miami, but if it falls through, they will almost certainly pursue Williams. Orlando was hoping to bring Williams back, but with the signing of Chris Duhon, a return is not likely.

Since coming to the NBA in 1998, Williams has played for Sacramento, Memphis, Miami, and Orlando. He has career averages of 10.8 points and 6 assists per game.