The Miami Heat are set to lose a key player, as the Philadelphia 76ers have reached an agreement with veteran forward Caleb Martin, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
It has been a busy offseason for the Sixers, who have created a new big three by adding Paul George to pair with Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid.
“Free agent F Caleb Martin is finalizing a deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources tell ESPN,” Wojnarowski reported on July 6, 2024. “Impactful pickup for the Sixers, who bring on the playoff-tested veteran from Miami.”
Martin recently completed a three-year, $20.4 million contract with the Heat. The veteran small forward averaged 10 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game while shooting 34.9% from long range in 64 appearances last season.
Caleb Martin’s Impact Against the Celtics
The Sixers might be focusing on competing with the Boston Celtics next season, given Martin’s impressive performances against them.
“In the past two seasons, Martin has averaged 13.6 points on 50 percent shooting and 44 percent on three-pointers against the Celtics (including regular season and playoffs),” Wojnarowski noted. “That’s his most points per game against an Eastern Conference opponent in that span, per ESPN Stats & Info.”
76ers Bolster Roster with Key Additions
The Sixers have significantly strengthened their roster this offseason by adding Paul George, Caleb Martin, Eric Gordon, and Andre Drummond. Wojnarowski also reported that the 76ers cut Paul Reed, potentially creating another roster spot.
“The Sixers have currently used up their offseason cap space, which features a strong list of additions: Paul George, Caleb Martin, Kelly Oubre Jr., Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon,” Forbes’ Evan Sidery explained on July 6, 2024. “Philadelphia can open up more room if they waive or trade Paul Reed’s non-guaranteed contract.”
George signed a four-year, $211 million deal with the Sixers, who have also managed to add depth around their new star.
“Philadelphia landed the big signing in Paul George, but they did some really good work filling out their depth too,” Spotrac’s Keith Smith commented on July 6. “Good stuff from the Sixers this offseason.”
Heat Eyeing Trade for Jazz Forward Lauri Markkanen
The Heat still have work to do in assembling their roster for the 2024-25 season. ESPN’s Zach Lowe reported that the Heat are interested in trading for Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen.
“Trading Lauri Markkanen would buy Utah a one-way ticket toward the front of the tank line, and Markkanen indeed stands as perhaps the league’s most intriguing trade chip with Mikal Bridges now in New York,” Lowe wrote on July 5. “A pile of teams have shown interest in him, including the San Antonio Spurs, Sacramento Kings, Miami Heat, and Warriors, sources said. History suggests Danny Ainge, Utah’s CEO, will move Markkanen once someone meets his price.”
The Heat’s pursuit of Markkanen indicates their determination to strengthen their roster and remain competitive despite the loss of Caleb Martin
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