Michael Beasley has yet again been cut from the Miami Heat roster as the ballclub continues to curb down its salary budget to avoid the dreaded luxury tax penalties.
Beasley has been in and out of the Heat franchise, three times to be exact, although there could be a fourth call-up if no one picks up the second overall pick of the 2008 NBA Draft.
Beasley would have made $1.27 million next season, a meager amount that makes one wonder why the Heat would release someone with a minimum salary.
Apparently there is more to it than just money.
Another reason is that Beasley may find himself spending more time on the bench with a loaded frontline heading into next season.
Beasley would have to slug it out with Chris Bosh, Josh McRoberts, Luol Deng, Udonis Haslem and Hassan Whiteside for playing time and apparently he was the unfortunate casualty that had to be cut.
Of course, there are others expected to follow him like Chris Andersen and Mario Chalmers as the Heat try to revamp their lineup and reclaim lost glory after missing the NBA playoffs last season.
But while he may have been released, Beasley could still end up attending training camp as an additional body. Even though he cannot re-sign with the club after six to eight months, it won't be surprising if he gets another tour of duty somewhere in the 2015-16 NBA season.
Aside from possibly being picked up by another team, Beasley had already said that he could consider playing in China if he goes unsigned, something he did last year.
Until that is settled, attending training camp could be a good idea, especially since the Heat could make use of someone who is familiar with coach Erik Spoelstra's system. That and the lingering idea of him coming back next season should make the transition easier and apparently sensible.
