The Miami Heat are working on buying out the contract of injured point guard Beno Udrih, according to a report by Yahoo!.
Udrih sustained a season-ending foot injury last week, and will be the casualty of the business side of basketball. Miami is facing tax implications after signing Joe Johnson recently and can negate that effect with a buyout of Udrih.
Prior to signing Johnson, the Heat found themselves close to the luxury-tax threshold, but with a little breathing room. Following the signing, Miami's hand has been forced to make a move once again. Udrih's removal represents a situation where the Heat can reclaim their solid financial positioning and also open up an additional roster spot.
Before falling victim to the injury that required surgery, Udrih had done an admirable job as the primary backup for Goran Dragic. In his 36 contests with Miami, Udrih averaged 4.4 points and 2.5 assists a game. Along the way, the veteran guard offered a few big nights where he ended up the difference maker.
Udrih has enjoyed a long NBA career in many various cities. The 33-year old joined Miami earlier this season when the Heat traded Mario Chalmers to the Memphis Grizzlies. Prior to Memphis, Udrih also spent time in San Antonio, Sacramento, Milwaukee, Orlando and New York.
The Heat could look to bring back Udrih next season, and his willingness to work with the team on the buyout could go a long way in those discussions. Miami will be in the market for a guard, and have seen firsthand the value that Udrih brings to the court and to the bench.
Should buyout negotiations fail to succeed, the Heat could outright release Udrih. This would not be as beneficial to the team's financial situation however. Once the transaction is completed, Miami is expected to try and fill the roster spot with another guard.
