The Miami Heat have painted themselves into a corner with a bout of luxurious spending this summer and the aftermath might force the Heat to part ways with center Chris Andersen.
Staring in the face of tremendous salary commitments, the prospect of shedding Andersen's $5-million deal represents significant savings for owner Micky Arison.
However, the 37-year-old Andersen isn't fretting any rumors. As he explained to Ira Winderman of the Sun Sentinel, Andersen is at peace with the inner workings of the NBA.
"It's a business, man," Andersen said. "It doesn't bother me one bit."
Andersen played a significant role in the Heat's most recent championship run in 2013. He appeared in 20 playoff games and averaged 6.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks.
Andersen's success earned him a two-year, $10 million contract with the Heat in 2014. He is slated to earn $5 million next season.
However, Andersen is now two years older and has become superfluous in the Heat's crowded frontcourt rotation. With Chris Bosh and Hassan Whiteside primed to command most of the minutes in the starting lineup, Andersen will have to contend for time along with Josh McRoberts and Amar'e Stoudemire.
In short, Andersen has become a luxury in a time of budget constraints for Miami. As he said, it's a business.
Still, moving Andersen might prove difficult. His price tag is uninviting for an oft-injured veteran and the Heat have very few assets to dangle. Reports have even suggested that the Heat would give Andersen away, practically for free.
Andersen averaged 5.3 points, five rebounds, and one block in 18.9 minutes per game last season.
