One of Miami Heat's developing talents is staying in South Beach for a few more years. The Heat recently agreed to a four-year deal with guard Josh Richardson which is going to earn him $42 million. Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported that there is a player option on the fourth year of the pact.
Richardson joined the Heat after they selected him with the 40th overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft. During his first year in Miami, he played in 52 games (two starts). He also saw action for the team's G League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce. In his second season with the Heat, Richardson became a mainstay on the roster and a regular in head coach Erick Spoelstra's rotation.
Unfortunately, injuries limited him to 53 outings (34 starts). Despite this, he recorded career-bests 10.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.1 steals, in 30.5 minutes of action per contest.
Waiting game
Richardson continues to improve each year, but for now, he needs to wait before getting a bigger role in Miami. The 23-year-old must settle for the backup job at the shooting guard position. As of the moment, the starting duties belong to Dion Waiters, who also signed a new four-year pact this offseason. The only difference is that Waiters will be earning $10 million more. No matter who starts in the 2017-18 season, the Heat hope for the two to have an impact as they aim to make it to the playoffs.
DeAndre' Bembry out
The Atlanta Hawks could start their new campaign without DeAndre' Bembry. According to the Associated Press, Bembry is expected to sit out for 4-6 weeks due to a triceps injury (strain). The health setback will prevent the 23-year-old from participating in training camp and the preseason. There is a possibility he also misses a few outings in the regular season.
In Bembry's rookie year last season, he played in just 38 games. In those appearances, he had averages of 2.7 points and 1.6 rebounds per game. The Associated Press mentioned in its report that Bembry is likely to have more minutes in the new season, with the Hawks undergoing the rebuilding phase.
On the depth chart provided by ESPN, Bembry is second at small forward, just behind projected starter Taurean Prince.
Nicolas Brussino is with them at the position, and there might be a new addition. Former Utah Jazz and Dallas Mavericks forward Jeremy Evans reached a deal with the Hawks. The 2012 slam dunk champion will be with the team in training camp.
