NBA Free Agency Rumors: Marcus Camby Would Be Perfect Fit for Miami Heat
The Miami Heat have to upgrade their depth at center.
Joel Anthony and Udonis Haslem aren't going to cut it.
With the team on a strict budget, the options are limited. That’s why bringing in unrestricted free agent Marcus Camby is a stellar idea.
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According to Jared Zwerling of ESPN New York, Camby plans on visiting the Heat and the New York Knicks this weekend. They are the two destinations currently at the top of Camby’s list, according to the report.
The 38-year-old is coming off a season with the Portland Trail Blazers and Houston Rockets in which he averaged 4.9 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in only 23.2 minutes of action. The 2007 Defensive Player of the Year may not be as explosive as years past, but there is no question he is still a prolific rebounder that has the ability to protect the rim and alter plenty of shots.
Miami is dying for a difference maker in the paint defensively, and Camby fits the description of exactly what they need.
From a financial perspective, the Heat may be in trouble. They have signed free agent Ray Allen to the mid-level exception, which reportedly is worth $3.09 million next season. That leaves little for Camby, who sources say would be “shocked” if he settled for the $1.4 million veteran’s minimum, according to Zwerling.
Camby will have to make the same decision Allen made: Is it worth it to take less money for a better shot at a ring?
There is no question Miami is already the favorite to repeat as champion with Allen now on board. Camby makes this team potentially one of the all-time greats with his 6’11’’ frame protecting the rim.
The last missing piece to this team is a shot-blocking center with playoff experience and Camby possess both qualities on top of being a seasoned veteran.
It comes down to if Camby is willing to take a significant pay cut, but if so, Miami is going to potentially be one of the greatest rosters ever assembled in the NBA.
Exciting times in South Beach.
