Post by Administrator on May 31, 2002 10:23:29 GMT -5
The Heat's pocketbook, nearly shut by the impending luxury tax, could be opened slightly this summer if a starting-caliber player wants to sign with Miami, coach Pat Riley said Wednesday.
Riley made several revelations in his first interview since April 19:
1. He said his mind-set is to coach at least the remaining three years of his contract, although ``I'm not going to print anything in stone. . . . The whimsical, wispy feelings about the end being near have long since passed.''
2. He said he prefers to keep most of his nucleus intact but wouldn't rule out trading anybody if there's a chance to acquire a top player or clear future salary-cap space.
3. He said he prefers to add a U.S.-based scorer with the 10th pick in the draft and already has turned down offers of veterans for the Heat's highest draft choice in seven years.
4. Although the Heat might only be able to make $1 million offers, Riley said he's ''optimistic'' free agents Rod Strickland and Jim Jackson want to return.
Riley made several revelations in his first interview since April 19:
1. He said his mind-set is to coach at least the remaining three years of his contract, although ``I'm not going to print anything in stone. . . . The whimsical, wispy feelings about the end being near have long since passed.''
2. He said he prefers to keep most of his nucleus intact but wouldn't rule out trading anybody if there's a chance to acquire a top player or clear future salary-cap space.
3. He said he prefers to add a U.S.-based scorer with the 10th pick in the draft and already has turned down offers of veterans for the Heat's highest draft choice in seven years.
4. Although the Heat might only be able to make $1 million offers, Riley said he's ''optimistic'' free agents Rod Strickland and Jim Jackson want to return.
