Heat Waive Terry Rozier Amid Federal Gambling Probe

The Miami Heat officially waived guard Terry Rozier on Friday, ending one of the strangest player sagas in recent NBA history. Rozier has been on paid leave since October after being arrested as part of a federal investigation into illegal gambling — a probe that also ensnared former coach Chauncey Billups and ex-player Damon Jones.

Rozier pleaded not guilty to conspiracy charges of wire fraud and money laundering. The NBA conducted its own investigation and did not find evidence of league rules violations, but the federal case remains ongoing. Rozier filed a motion to dismiss the charges, which is still pending.

For the Heat, this is a practical move as much as anything. With the regular season ending Sunday and the Play-In Tournament starting April 14, Miami needed to free up a roster spot. Rozier's expiring contract had to be waived by 5 PM on April 9 to clear waivers before the postseason. The Heat are currently locked into the East's Play-In Tournament and need every available body. The bigger question — what happens to Rozier's NBA career — won't be answered until the federal case resolves.