Riley said the trade didnt have anything to do with the luxury tax, but the issue is that
roster spots are valuable, and we werent so sure someone could make our roster, so better to have that spot available for a veteran.
Riley said that center Justin Hamilton, the pick at No. 45, could go overseas. Miami is planning to bring back shot-blocker Jarvis Varnado, a former second-round pick, over from Europe, to play in summer league and possibly compete for a roster spot.
Either way, dont expect to see Hamilton in a Heat uniform this season.
Riley said while Hamilton is not an above-the-rim player, :word: he
has quick feet, takes up space. The comparison, because of shooting ability? Michael Doleac, who played on the Heats 2006 championship team. The Heat had Hamilton in for a workout, and Riley felt the LSU product was the best big on the floor that day. Riley said he would have traded the No. 45 pick if there wasnt anyone he liked.
Pat Riley explains decision to trade first-round pick | Heat Zone blog: Miami Heat & NBA news | The Palm Beach Post