Adam Silver: NBA intends to work with Heat in resolving Terry Rozier ordeal

NBA commissioner Adam Silver acknowledged the league is still searching for answers regarding the Heat’s situation involving Terry Rozier.

Speaking ahead of the NBA Cup final, Silver called the matter “unprecedented” and said the league has not yet identified a clear path forward, according to Ira Winderman of The South Florida Sun Sentinel and Anthony Chiang of The Miami Herald.

“There’s no obvious solution here,” Silver said, adding that the NBA is continuing to review the case but does not have a timeline for resolution or potential relief.

Rozier has been on indefinite unpaid leave following his arrest on federal charges related to illegal gambling. His withheld salary is currently being placed in an escrow-type account, and he is scheduled to have an arbitration hearing with the league to determine whether he should be paid while on leave.

Multiple reports indicate Miami has not received clarity on whether it can waive Rozier or use his salary in a trade during the leave. Rozier’s $26.6 million contract is partially guaranteed, which could allow the Heat to create limited savings if a decision is made before early January.

The Heat were reportedly unaware of the betting activity or the NBA’s investigation when they acquired Rozier from Charlotte in January 2024. Miami still owes the Hornets a future first-round pick from that deal, with protections attached.