Heat cap space and win-now pressure collide as Jaquez Jr. emerges as a potential wing pillar, while Rozier looms as a trade or waiver lever to unlock room for a veteran big. Achiuwa’s value at the vet minimum adds rebounding and length, but center bulk may still be needed with Goldin on a two-way and Dedmon/Zeller in uncertain standing.

Tyrese Maxey’s reference anchors Heat decision-making in draft history and roster evaluation, signaling a tilt toward immediate impact over upside, and a continued balancing act between guard depth and frontcourt punch.

Miami's frontcourt is thin as Bam Adebayo leans into a four role to curb wear and tear. Kel'el Ware and Vlad Goldin show promise behind him, with Nikola Jovic and Keshad Johnson slotted as fours rather than fives. Precious Achiuwa and Thomas Bryant are being considered as veteran depth, while cap constraints loom and a Rozier buyout could surface as a path to sign one of them—but only if the Heat clear the luxury tax threshold by Jan. 10.

The Los Angeles Lakers have made a significant move in the 2025 NBA offseason by signing Deandre Ayton, a former top draft pick, to bolster their center position. This crucial addition comes after the team struggled in the postseason without a strong inside presence following the Anthony Davis era. Both Luka Dončić and LeBron James had a difficult time leading the team without adequate center support. Ayton's signing for two years at $16 million provides the Lakers with a much-needed anchor in the paint.

However, the team recognizes that further reinforcement is necessary. Suggestions have been made to pursue Precious Achiuwa, an unrestricted free agent who has shown promise as a robust backup center. Achiuwa's experience with the New York Knicks and his ability to provide energy and rebounding could complement Ayton well, especially after a season where his playing time diminished in the postseason. The Lakers also re-signed Jaxson Hayes, but the depth in the frontcourt remains a concern, making Achiuwa's addition potentially beneficial.

In a critical showdown, the Boston Celtics battled the New York Knicks in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Despite Jayson Tatum's absence due to an Achilles injury, the Celtics showcased resilience, led by Jaylen Brown and the surprising emergence of Luke Kornet. Brown stepped up significantly, filling Tatum's shoes admirably, which proved vital in keeping Boston's playoff hopes alive. With both teams facing injury challenges—Precious Achiuwa for the Knicks and Tatum for the Celtics—the stakes were high as the teams aimed for a Game 7 decider.

The Knicks opted for rest over rhythm as they head into the postseason, a choice underscored by their decision to sit key players like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns during their final regular season game against the Brooklyn Nets. Despite securing the No. 3 seed, the Knicks faced significant challenges, finishing the season with three consecutive losses and struggling to find offensive cohesion. The team’s lack of in-game practice left them untested against the Pistons, who previously exploited New York's weaknesses.

While the starters were rested, the bench shone brightly, with Landry Shamet leading the charge by scoring 29 points. Cam Payne and Precious Achiuwa also contributed effectively, raising questions about head coach Tom Thibodeau's potential playoff rotations. With the stakes now shifting to the playoffs, the Knicks must quickly regain their edge to overcome a formidable Pistons team that has already shown its ability to challenge them.