One of the reasons why Pat Riley is so recognized and respected amongst the league executives and players is for how much he values loyalty.
He has proven it yet again, as the Miami Heat General Manager has re-signed Udonis Haslem on a 1-Year/$2.5 Million deal.
Udonis Haslem will return to the Miami Heat for Season 18 on a 1-Year/$2.5 Million deal, via @ByTimReynolds
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) November 13, 2020
The Captain. 💪 pic.twitter.com/TgsXtVmtTp
Associated Press' Tim Reynolds reported the NBA veteran will return to South Beach for season 18, and there's a lot of chances this may be his last one in the association.
The 40 year-old from Miami has been with the organization since 2003, and even though he is not part of Erik Spoelstra's rotation, he is one of the most vocal players in the league. Haslem's experience was vital in the Heat's Finals run this past season, and as many player like to call him, he's the last player of a dying breed.
Udonis Haslem is RETURNING for his 18th season with the Miami Heat 💯 (per @IraHeatBeat) pic.twitter.com/fDeReOASoI
— Overtime (@overtime) November 13, 2020
'UD' played a huge role in the three NBA Championships the Miami Heat have in their history. Throughout the 858 regular season games he's played with Miami, Haslem averages 7.6 points and 6.7 rebounds per game.
This past season, he only played four games in both regular season and playoffs, but his impact was unlike any other player in the roster.