The veteran, who has been instrumental in the Heat’s recent successes, had been in extensive negotiations with the team management. However, differences over contract terms ultimately led to an impasse. The player’s departure marks the end of an era and signals a potential shift in the team’s strategy moving forward.
The Heat organization expressed their gratitude for the player’s contributions, acknowledging the pivotal role he played in their recent campaigns. The departure not only affects the team’s roster but also the locker room dynamics, as experienced players often serve as mentors and leaders for younger teammates.
Kings Sign Former Heat Center in Free Agency
With a few roster spots still open, the Sacramento Kings have signed a third big man to their lineup.
After being waived by the Miami Heat and playing in the NBA Summer League with the Houston Rockets, Orlando Robinson is heading back to California. Robinson, who averaged 14.2 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks in 23.5 minutes per game with Houston’s Summer League team, signed a one-year deal with the Sacramento Kings, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Robinson’s addition brings the Kings’ roster to fourteen contracted players, plus three on two-way deals. He will serve as an emergency depth piece, positioned behind Domantas Sabonis and Alex Len on the depth chart.
In his two seasons with the Heat, Robinson logged 729 minutes over 67 games. During his nine G-League games with the Sioux Falls Skyforce, he averaged 24.3 points, 11.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 2.1 blocks, and 1.3 steals, shooting 57.5 percent from the field, 37.5 percent from three, and 63.2 percent on free throws in 33.6 minutes.
So far, Robinson has excelled in the G-League and Summer League but has struggled to replicate that success in the NBA. A change of scenery with the Kings could help him reach his potential.
Next Steps for the Kings After Signing Orlando Robinson
With Robinson on board, the Kings have one roster spot remaining. They should now focus on signing a versatile wing player who can play either forward position.
While Sacramento acquired Jalen McDaniels from the Toronto Raptors, his performance last season—averaging 3.4 points and 1.6 rebounds while shooting 34.4 percent from the floor and 16.9 percent from three-point range—leaves room for improvement.
Like his younger brother, Jaden McDaniels of the Minnesota Timberwolves, Jalen has strong defensive potential but struggles with perimeter shooting. Fortunately, veterans like Gordon Hayward, Cedi Osman, Jae Crowder, Markieff Morris Sr., and Robert Covington are still available. Both Morris and Covington would be ideal for Sacramento, offering solid defense, versatility at forward, and veteran experience for a potential deep playoff run.
The Kings might take their time filling the final roster spot, given the slower pace of the NBA offseason. With training camp approaching, they have the opportunity to carefully consider their options.
Leave a Reply