When the Miami Heat acquired Terry Rozier from the Charlotte Hornets, they envisioned him as a dynamic scoring guard who could provide a much-needed offensive spark. However, since arriving in South Beach, Rozier has struggled to find consistency, and his recent performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 5, 2025, only highlighted the concerns surrounding his fit with the team.

A Disastrous Night in Cleveland

Rozier’s outing against the Cavaliers was one to forget. He managed just 12 points on a brutal 3-of-14 shooting (21.4%) from the field, including a dreadful 1-of-8 from three (12.5%). His inefficiency, coupled with four turnovers, played a role in the Heat’s narrow 112-107 loss.

This game was not an isolated incident, Rozier has consistently struggled to find his rhythm, often forcing tough shots and failing to provide the playmaking presence Miami hoped for.

A Season of Disappointment

Through 53 games, Rozier is averaging:

• 11.8 points per game
• 3.9 rebounds per game
• 2.8 assists per game
• 40.4% field goal shooting

While these numbers aren’t abysmal, they’re far from what Miami expected when they acquired him to complement Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. Rozier’s inefficiency has hurt the Heat’s offensive flow, and his lack of defensive impact has been another issue.

Why Has Rozier Struggled in Miami?

There are several reasons why Rozier’s transition to the Heat has been rough:

1. Offensive Fit Issues
   • The Heat’s offense prioritizes ball movement and disciplined shot selection. Rozier, who thrived in Charlotte as a high-usage scorer, hasn’t adjusted well to playing within Miami’s structured system.
2. Shooting Woes
   • Rozier was supposed to bring efficient scoring, but he’s shooting just 40.4% from the field and under 33% from three. His inability to hit open shots has made him a liability in late-game situations.
3. Turnover Problems
   • Rozier has also struggled with decision-making, averaging more turnovers than assists in several games. This has led to wasted possessions and frustrated head coach Erik Spoelstra.
4. Defensive Limitations
   • Rozier isn’t known for his defense, but his lapses on that end have been glaring in Miami’s switch-heavy scheme. He often gets caught out of position, forcing teammates to cover for him.

What’s Next for Rozier and the Heat?

The Heat find themselves in a difficult situation. Rozier was brought in to be a difference-maker, but his performances have raised questions about whether he’s the right fit for this team. With the playoffs approaching, Miami will need Rozier to either step up or risk being a major liability.

Could Erik Spoelstra adjust Rozier’s role? Would the Heat consider moving him in the offseason? These are the tough questions the organization must face.

For now, Rozier still has time to turn things around, but if his struggles continue, his tenure in Miami could be short-lived.