Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier. Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Terry Rozier takes subtle shot at the Hornets' 'DNA'

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 1/30/24

Terry Rozier recently joined the Miami Heat via trade. The veteran guard had spent four and a half seasons with the Charlotte Hornets, during which he never made the playoffs. During a recent media availability, Rozier discussed the difference in expectations while casually taking a shot at the Hornets in the process.

"It's the total opposite," Rozier said. "In Charlotte, you're kind of used to losing. It's kind of in your DNA. It sucks to say that because of how much of a competitor I am. But, over here, it's just the total opposite. Nobody wants to lose. Nobody is fine with it...It's no secret. Everybody knows the difference between some organizations in the league and how well some people take winning. The culture of things. But, this is the top."

"It's the total opposite. When you're in Charlotte, you're kind of used to losing... Over here, nobody is fine with [losing]..." - Terry Rozier

(via @ZachWeinberger)pic.twitter.com/IAoC1MvEFb
— Ball Don’t Lie (@Balldontlie) January 30, 2024

Rozier entered the NBA with the Boston Celtics, going to the playoffs in each season he was with the team. He's likely been waiting for his next opportunity to make the postseason and remind everybody of his "Scary Terry" run.

The Heat will provide Rozier with the platform and opportunity to succeed at the highest level. He will need to buy into Erik Spoelstra's system. He will need to adapt how he approaches playing defense. And he will need to raise his performance level. If he can do those three things, success will likely follow.

Nevertheless, Miami is in a funk right now, losing its last seven games. Fortunately, the Heat still find themselves sitting seventh in the Eastern Conference. They're three games behind the Indiana Pacers for sixth, a spot that would guarantee postseason participation without the need for the play-in tournament.

Rozier hasn't found his stride with the Heat yet. He's still figuring out his role with the team and where his offense is going to come from. Those issues are common when joining a new team.

However, Rozier appears to be relishing being in a position to be competitive. The Heat usually find a way to figure things out. It will be interesting to see what type of positive impact he can bring to the rotation once everything settles down for the roster.

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