Terry Rozier signed two lucrative contracts with the Charlotte Hornets after completing his rookie deal with the Boston Celtics, earning more than $160 million over his 10-year NBA career.
However, as ESPN’s Shams Charania reported, the FBI has arrested Rozier in connection with a gambling investigation — putting his professional future in serious jeopardy. Here’s a look back at how Rozier’s career led to this point.
What Went Wrong for Terry Rozier After the Trade to Miami?
Rozier is in the final year of a four-year, $96.3 million contract. He becomes a free agent next summer, but he will not be sought after. His tenure with the Miami Heat certainly did not go as planned, even before his arrest.
Miami acquired Rozier at the 2024 trade deadline from the Hornets in exchange for Kyle Lowry and a 2027 protected first-round pick. The Heat needed a boost for its half-court offense. They hoped the former 16th pick in the 2015 NBA Draft would add much-needed shot creation and three-point efficiency. He posted great numbers in Charlotte, averaging over 19.0 points per game in all three seasons of his three-year, $56.7 million deal.
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However, this has not been the case in Miami. Last season, he averaged 10.6 points and shot just 29.5% from 3-point range in 25.9 minutes per game. His playing time was the lowest it had been since the 2018-19 campaign with Boston. The Heat had high hopes for Rozier, but the move certainly did not work out.
Rozier Started as a Playoff Hero With Boston Celtics
Rozier has not played a game in the playoffs since he left the Celtics in the 2019 offseason. However, their fans remember his incredible performance in the 2017-18 postseason. Rozier played a massive role, putting up 16.5 points, 5.7 assists, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.7 3-pointers per game. He played a whopping 36.6 minutes across 19 playoff contests, filling in admirably for an injured Kyrie Irving.
After establishing himself under the bright lights, Rozier wanted more offensive responsibility. He knew Irving’s return would limit his role, so he signed with Charlotte after the following campaign. Rozier enjoyed three 20-point-per-game seasons with the rebuilding Hornets but did not come close to matching that in Miami.
Rozier’s career, now tainted by his legal troubles, will never be looked at the same.