The Miami Heat have signed free agent forward Nassir Little to a non-guaranteed one-year contract, filling their final roster spot. Little, a five-year NBA veteran, averaged 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds with the Phoenix Suns last season and boasts a career average of 33% shooting from beyond the arc. At 6-foot-6 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, he presents valuable defensive versatility, especially after the team’s offseason losses of key defensive players Caleb Martin and Delon Wright. Coach Erik Spoelstra is known for giving opportunities to young players willing to show they deserve minutes, and Little’s active defense could earn him a spot in the rotation as the season progresses.

By the Numbers

• Nassir Little averaged 3.4 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 0.5 assists last season with the Suns.
• During the 2021-22 season with the Trail Blazers, he averaged 9.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.3 assists.

State of Play

• Litte’s contract is non-guaranteed, allowing flexibility under the salary cap.
• Miami has depth but has suffered from injuries, creating potential opportunities for younger players like Little.

What’s Next

If injuries arise, Spoelstra may allocate more minutes to Little, allowing him to demonstrate his defensive capabilities and potentially contribute offensively as well. His performance in training camp will be pivotal for securing a role in the team.

Bottom Line

Nassir Little represents a strategic acquisition for the Heat, providing necessary defensive skills and potential for growth, especially as the team navigates through the challenges of injuries and depth. His opportunity to shine under Spoelstra could be a game-changer for both him and the Heat.