Heat haven't offered Winslow extension; sides will meet in coming weeks
Miami Heat swingman Justise Winslow will become a restricted free-agent next summer if he doesn't sign an extension before Oct. 15 and the franchise hasn’t given Winslow an indication of whether a contract extension will be offered, according to a report from Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.
The Heat and Winslow are expected to meet in the coming weeks. Miami has already extended a $4.7 million qualifying offer to Winslow, so they will have the right to match any offer sheet should Winslow sign one with another team.
“Well, it’s heading in the right direction, but I think there’s some timing issues there,” Heat president Pat Riley said last week when asked where things stand on a potential Winslow extension. “I think issues during the regular season, but we’re committed to Justise. He’s committed to us. We have until October the 15th to make that decision, but we’ve been in constant communication with his agent and with Justise.”
Miami drafted Winslow with the 10th overall pick in the 2015 draft. In 68 games this past season, Winslow averaged 7.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists, shooting 42.4 percent from the field and 38.0 percent from beyond the arc.
One general manager told the Miami Herald he could see Winslow getting a contract starting at $9 million or so.
When asked in August by Sports Illustrated if the contract extension has been on his mind, Winslow said, "not really."
"I’m just trying to be the best player I can be and keep working out," Winslow said. "I’m happy in Miami. I’m sure we’ll figure something out whether it’s this fall or next summer. I’m not in any rush. I’m in constant communication with the front office and coach. I’m not stressed about it. I’m just trying to work out this summer, have fun and be ready for next season.”
The Heat have already surpassed the luxury tax threshold and are trying to re-sign Dwyane Wade and Udonis Haslem. Wade, if he doesn't retire, will likely sign the team’s $5.3 million exception, while Haslem will receive the veteran's minimum.
