The Miami Heat are still looking for a back-up big man this offseason. The team auditioned veteran center Nazr Mohammed to fill the spot just a week ago and is now considering Ryan Hollins, who played for the Los Angeles Clippers last season, although no deal has yet been made according to the Miami Herald. Emeka Okafor was a top candidate but his injury (bulging disc from his neck) has prevented any negotiations from advancing.
One player who may be up for the job is Andre Blatche the former back-up Power forward/Center for the Brooklyn Nets. Nets Daily revealed that Blatche told T.J Manotoc, a top Filipino sports writer, that he was leaving from Spain after the FIBA World Cup for Miami for a contract negotiation with the Heat.
Blatche is an intriguing prospect for the Heat because of his unique offensive skill set. He can score anywhere from the floor and has the range to fill the role as a stretch big. With his size and shooting, Blatche could really be an ideal back up for Chris Bosh. Ira Winderman of Sun Sentinel shares his view on the chances of the Heat signing Blatche this offseason:
If it were up to me (and it never is), it would be a no-brainer. Frankly, I think a lot of it would be up to Blatche, a willingness to buy into the Heat system and accept a minimal contract. Even that tweet that came out at the World Cup, saying Blatche was returning to Miami to negotiate . . . there is nothing to negotiate, at least with the Heat. The minimum is all they have to offer. I would be shocked if the Heat would allow a guarantee to get in the way. But you do have to wonder about Blatche being forced to wait this late in the process, whether there isn't more at play than salary or role.
The Heat and Blatche have been in contact with each other for over two weeks now and if Blatche decides to play for the veteran's minimum then its highly likely that he would be wearing a Heat jersey this coming season.
Blatch played for the Philippine National team at the FIBA World Cup and averaged 21.2 points and 13.8 rebounds in five games. He almost helped carry the team, heavy underdogs entering the tournament, to the second round and his play has reportedly sealed his chances of a return to the NBA.
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