Miami Heat relinquish veteran Guard Carlos Arroyo to clear spot for Mike Bibby – NBA Update
At this point of time when most teams are marching forward with their newly acquired rosters, Miami Heat looks forward to sign free-agent Mike Bibby by parting ways with Carlos Arroyo. Although the franchise has made no formal announcement in this regard,
however several players from Miami have already indicated Bibby’s arrival.
"I think it's a big thing for us. He's going to do a lot of things that can help LeBron, Dwyane and everyone else around here," Bibby's brother-in-law and Miami’s reserve guard, Eddie House said.
Heat’s guard position was extensively observed as one of the weakest spot this season and the team has been desperately searching for a suitable substitute. Nine-year veteran Arroyo opened the season as a starter, but he was replaced by Mario Chalmers in
January.
"This was a very difficult decision to make because Carlos has done a great job for this team and this organization. He is truly a first class individual and professional. We wish him nothing but the best," Heat President Pat Riley stated as he paid tribute
to Arroyo.
Arroyo was playing his second season with the franchise averaging 5.6 points and 2.0 assists in 49 games this season. He was putting up a meagre performance in his recent games managing to avail only 27 minutes of the court time since January 30. Miami relinquished
31-year-old guard on Tuesday, indicating their desire to procure Bibby.
Prior to this move, the Heat had tried extensively to procure free-agent forward Troy Murphy. However, the big man eventually landed at the home of their Eastern Conference rivals, the Boston Celtics. The curious case of Bibby has opened a new window of
opportunity for them.
Bibby was acquired by the Washington Wizards last week, as they reached a buyout agreement on Monday. He made his first appearance as a Wizard opposing Miami Heat on Friday not knowing, the next week will have him swap teams.
This season’s career average for Bibby is comparatively low in points and assists however he would certainly add value with his incredible ability to shoot from long distance. He is averaging 9.1 points and 3.6 assists with his career-best 44.1 per cent
from 3-point range.
Several years ago, Lebron James was on the verge of pairing with Mike Bibby in the Cleveland Cavaliers, however this time James will not miss out on having him in the line-up.
Bibby’s shift from Atlanta Hawks to the Wizards and eventually to the Heat after becoming a free-agent in the last week, has been the most captivating transaction this season. It goes a long way to show-case the winning spirit of the 13 year veteran, who
has made it to the play-offs in each of his last nine seasons.
Dwayne Wade said that it will be good to have an experienced point guard who can control the game and knock down big shots at important moments of the play. He also showed concern for Arroyo, wishing him the best in his future.
The Miami Heat have been looking for a strong contender to support their defence, while the exhilarating Big 3 produce fireworks at the front court. It seems like Bibby’s addition in the team will now finally provide them with that luxury.
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