NBA Trade Rumors 2015: Chris Andersen Not Bothered by Uncertain Future With Miami Heat
Chris Andersen was mentioned in recent trade rumors, but the Miami Heat forward said that he is not bothered by all talks about his future, as he is focused on preparing for the 2015-16 NBA season.
The Heat, who made several roster moves this offseason, will reportedly consider trading Andersen before the trade deadline in February to avoid paying hefty luxury tax.
Andersen, who has spent the past three seasons in Miami, has one year left in his contract worth $5 million. He understands that the Heat could decide to move him before the deadline, but the 37-year-old forward played down rumors about his future.
Andersen became a dispensable asset for the Heat after they acquired veteran forward Amar'e Stoudemire, who could eventually take Andersen's place in the rotation. The Heat also added Gerald Green, who is also expected to get significant playing time in the upcoming season.
But for Andersen, the Heat's moves this offseason do not necessarily mean that his days in Miami are numbered. For him, Heat officials just wanted to make sure that they will bounce back this season after missing the playoffs last season -- their first year without four-time Most Valuable Player LeBron James.
"It's all about progression, man," Andersen said via Sun Sentinel. "We're trying to improve ourselves and make sure that we set a precedent of coming into the league this season with a mindset of winning. And I think the guys and the moves that we made are heading in the right direction for us to accomplish our goals."
Earlier this month, reports also indicated that former starting point guard Mario Chalmers could also be moved before the season or before the trade deadline. If the Heat successfully move both Chalmers and Andersen, they could go below the tax threshold.
Chalmers, who has spent his entire seven-year career in Miami, admitted that he has heard a lot of rumors about his future, but the 29-year-old vowed that he will not let the speculation affect his preparation for next season.
"It's kind of tough just hearing all the rumors and stuff," Chalmers said. "But you know, that's what it was, was just rumors. I've just got to keep focusing on my game and keep my mind straight and keep fighting through it."
Chalmers, who averaged 10.2 points and 3.8 assists in 80 games last season, lost his starting spot midway through the season after the Heat acquired Goran Dragic from the Phoenix Suns.
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