Miami Heat

Report: Heat's Napier trade opens up roster spot for Tyler Johnson

Published Jul. 28, 2015 1:35 p.m. ET

foxsports

The Miami Heat have had a busy offseason, and their latest move helped bring some clarity to a crowded backcourt.

By trading Shabazz Napier to the Orlando Magic, the Heat have committed to giving Tyler Johnson a bigger role going forward. But before they could install Johnson as the backup point guard, Pat Riley & Co. needed to make sure that Johnson was actually on the roster for next season.

According to the Sun-Sentinel's Ira Winderman, Miami is set to pick up Johnson's option for next season now that there's room for him:

A broken jaw slowed Johnson this summer, but he's been fantastic for the Heat in the D-League and at summer league. Bringing him back was an easy decision. With Mario Chalmers still in town, Johnson's probably not the full-time backup quite yet. But in time, don't be surprised if he's the first one off the bench when Goran Dragic needs a rest.

(h/t NBC Sports)