Heat Rumors: Miami Reportedly in Contact with Kenyon Martin

The Miami Heat sent big man Dexter Pittman to the Memphis Grizzlies to free up a roster spot on Thursday, and that opening could very well be filled by Kenyon Martin. 

ESPN's Brian Windhorst has the news:

Let's take a closer look at this newest development and what it means for both sides.  

What it Means

This isn't exactly surprising. Miami's need for a big man who can rebound and play defense has been well documented, and with a roster spot now freed up, filling that void via free agency makes sense. 

Martin is undoubtedly among the best that market has to offer. 

The 35-year-old veteran isn't exactly an offensive weapon anymore, but he would give Erik Spoelstra's squad the toughness and defense it desires. 

In 42 games last season for the Los Angeles Clippers, Martin averaged 22.4 minutes per game. During that time, he compiled 4.3 rebounds, one steal and one block per contest. 

On the surface, those numbers aren't staggering, but his steal and block percentages were the best he has put up during his 12-year career, and when he was on the court, the Clippers' defense was over four points per 100 possessions better than when he was off it.  

This would be the type of under-the-radar signing that wins championships. 

What's Next?

Windhorst states that the Heat won't make a move until March 1, but it became clear just an hour before the trade deadline that Miami values an open roster spot.

It wouldn't make much sense not to fill it somehow. 

Follow @t_keen