The Miami Heat continue to explore ways to complete their roster, with veteran center Nick Richards emerging as one player under consideration.
According to Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald, Miami has discussed the possibility of adding Richards, who has recently been working out with Heat players at Kaseya Center while wearing Heat gear.
However, Jackson reports that no offer had been made and no agreement was in place as of midday Wednesday.
Free agents are permitted to work out at Miami's facility after signing a waiver, meaning Richards' presence does not indicate that a signing is imminent.
Heat evaluating center market
Richards, a 6-foot-11 center, spent last season with the Phoenix Suns and Chicago Bulls.
Across 48 appearances, including six starts, he averaged 5.8 points and 5.1 rebounds in 14.6 minutes per game.
Miami is expected to continue evaluating the center market over the coming weeks, particularly with the NBA's waive-and-stretch deadline approaching on Aug. 29.
Richards therefore represents one possibility rather than a clear-cut target, with the Heat waiting to see which other big men could become available before making a decision.
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Klay Thompson remains priority
Miami's roster situation is also closely connected to its continued interest in Klay Thompson.
The Heat currently have 12 players on standard contracts, according to Jackson, and one of their remaining spots could be reserved for Thompson if he reaches a buyout agreement with the Dallas Mavericks and subsequently agrees to join Miami.
The Heat have repeatedly been linked with Thompson throughout the offseason and remain positioned near the front of the line if the veteran sharpshooter becomes a free agent.
Dallas, however, has so far preferred finding a trade rather than buying out the final year of Thompson's contract.
If Thompson ultimately joins Miami, he would occupy the Heat's 13th standard roster spot.
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DeMar DeRozan, Gabe Vincent also considered
The Heat could then use their 14th spot on another addition, potentially a center.
Jackson reports that DeMar DeRozan and former Heat guard Gabe Vincent are among other players who have received consideration.
DeRozan's situation is more complicated financially. The veteran forward reportedly wants exception-level money, while Miami is currently preserving that spending power for Thompson.
That leaves the Heat balancing several possibilities as the offseason progresses.
Miami is expected to enter the season with its 15th standard roster spot vacant because of its hard-cap situation, meaning the organization has limited flexibility and must be selective with its remaining additions.