Heat Rumors: Latest Free Agent Buzz and More

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The NBA champions looked unbeatable in the NBA Finals, yet there is no doubt the Miami Heat will still have to do work in free agency this offseason.

Whether it's Ronny Turiaf or Ray Allen, there has been a plethora of talk surrounding who the Miami Heat want to bring back and what free agents they need to pursue.

These are the latest rumors and updates for the Miami Heat as we now begin the 2012 NBA free agency.

Heat Reportedly Interested in John Lucas III

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Update: July 8 at 11:43 p.m. ET by Sam Quinn

The Miami Heat are reportedly interested in signing free-agent point guard John Lucas III.

According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, the Heat are pursuing Lucas, who played for the Chicago Bulls last season:

Heat interested in free agent PG John Lucas III, sources tell ESPN. Story will be posted soon.

— Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) July 9, 2012

Heat fans might remember Lucas as the man that LeBron James flew over on the receiving end of an alley-oop finish from Dwyane Wade.

Bulls' fans might remember Lucas as a serviceable point guard in Derrick Rose's absence. Lucas started just two games for Chicago last season, averaging 14.8 minutes and 7.5 points per game.

Lucas would be a viable option behind Mario Chalmers and Norris Cole as the third-string point guard. One of Lucas' best games of the season came against the Heat, in which he scored 24 points on 9-for-12 shooting and clinched the victory with a pair of free throws.

Stay tuned to find out what happens with the Heat and Lucas. 

Ray Allen Leaning Towards Miami?

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Update: Thursday, July 5 at 2:53 p.m. EDT by Matt Shetler

Free agent shooting guard Ray Allen hasn't ruled out a return to Boston, but HoopsWorld's Alex Kennedy reports via Twitter that the future Hall of Famer is leaning towards signing with Miami.

A return to Boston isn't out of the question for Ray Allen, but sources believe he's leaning toward Miami. He's meeting with the Heat today.

— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) July 5, 2012

In addition, Kennedy notes that Allen is visiting the Heat today.

-----End of Update-----

Ray Allen Is Heat's Prime Target This Offseason

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After hearing the rumors about interest between the two sides, it is now clear that the Miami Heat want to aggressively go after Ray Allen.

 

UPDATE: Wednesday, July 4, 7:30 a.m. ET by Donald Wood

Boston has agreed to a deal with veteran shooting guard Jason Terry, sealing Ray Allen’s fate that he will not be a Celtic next season. With the Heat already hot on his trail, LeBron James is calling what we many experts think will happen.

James took to Twitter to share a picture that he was particularly fond of:

RT @abake6: #Heat fans, do yall want to see something really cool? (Cc: @FakePatRiley) twitter.com/abake6/status/…(looks damn good to me)

— LeBron James (@KingJames) July 4, 2012

If Allen is excited during his trip to Miami for a visit, there is little doubt the veteran would sign with a team that just won the title. There isn’t much time for the veteran, so winning this year is his top priority.

For the Heat, Allen is the pure three-point shooter the team has missed from the start. If the NBA legend can stay healthy for the playoff stretch, he will be an amazing addition to a team that is already filled with amazing talent.

I smell a dynasty.

---------End of Update--------

 

According to ESPN.com's Brian Windhorst, these Miami Heat have made Allen the primary target in this year's free agency period. 

The Heat are a team predicated on the play of their roll players, particularly their ability to knock down shots off of drive-and-kicks. Ray Allen, arguably the most prolific shooter in NBA history, is exactly the type of player that would elevate this team that much more.

If fans thought Shane Battier and Mario Chalmers could knock down threes, wait till this three-point mastermind hits the hardwood. Pursuing him as aggressively as they will is certainly a positive move for these Heat.

Ronny Turiaf Goes for the Free Agency Market

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One of the few big bodies that the Miami Heat have could be on the move this offseason.

ESPN.com's Brian Windhorst reported early Sunday that the frontline defensive presence won't pick up the option with the team and plans to test the market.

Ronny Turiaf will not pick up option with Heat & will become an unrestricted free agent according to agent Mark Bartelstein

— Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) June 30, 2012

 

Ronny Turiaf was a solid player for the Heat this season, averaging three points, 4.1 rebounds, and a block in just 17 minutes per game. His production isn't jaw-dropping by any stretch of the imagination, but it is certainly efficient given his scarce minutes on the floor.

Chris Bosh Injury Not to Be Taken Lightly

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Despite helping revive the Miami Heat in the playoffs and winning an NBA title, Bosh was certainly more hurt than people realized.

According to an Associated Press piece on ESPN.com, Bosh will rehab the abdominal strain and is going to miss the Olympics in London.

As is the case with many of today's stars, it is difficult to play during the offseason when staying fit and healthy for the following season has to be the priority. Bosh's case is no different, as he clearly needs the extra rest to heal up for another title run in 2012-13.