Miami Heat To Sign Veteran Backup Center

The Miami Heat have been looking for a viable backup center behind Bam Adebayo, and it appears that they have their man—nine-year veteran Cody Zeller. 

Cody Zeller is now targeting signing with the Heat, per @ByTimReynolds pic.twitter.com/aHGdpfuvJw

— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) February 19, 2023

The Heat parted ways with Dewayne Dedmon at the trade deadline, and have been without another backup center, Omer Yertseven, for much of the season due to injury. They turned to the free agent market this past week, and brought in Zeller for a workout.  

Zeller apparently impressed in workout; also had endorsement from key Heat player.And if Lowry has more knee issues, Herro, Oladipo, Butler can handle when Vincent out of game. Roster now at 15; 2 ways can be subbed out but it doesn't create change in remaining nba eligible days

— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) February 19, 2023

As noted by Heat reporter Barry Jackson, Zeller obviously impressed Heat brass. In addition, they decided to go with a center instead of a guard with their last roster spot due to the fact that Kyle Lowry's knee issues have improved, and they're confident that Victor Oladipo will be back soon, and along with Tyler Herro and Jimmy Butler will be able to handle any ballhandling duties if Lowry is out again.

Zeller, 30, was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, and spent his first eight years with Charlotte, where he averaged 8.7 points and 6.0 rebounds in 22.7 minutes per game.  

Photo: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports