Steve Mitchell- USA Today Sports
Roger Mason Jr. has traveled around the league since joining the NBA in 2002. Never a true starter, Mason has always been a quality role player, but never seemed to find the right fit with the teams he has signed for.
Initially drafted by the Chicago Bulls with the 31st overall pick, Mason only played 20 games combined during his two-year tenure. Mason’s best years were with the San Antonio Spurs from 2008-10 when he averaged career highs in points, rebounds and assists per game. This was also the first team to give him an average of over 25 minutes a game. When given the opportunity, Mason has proven he can be a quality player off the bench.
Although age isn’t on his side, Mason can still provide valuable minutes at the shooting guard position. Dwyane Wade’s constant knee injuries and Ray Allen’s age provide reasons for concern at the shooting guard position, so Miami Heat management went out and found a reliable scorer who has playing experience.
The biggest for concern for Mason at this point is whether or not he will be able to beat out the competition for a final spot on the Heat’s 15-man roster. Mason will be competing against a lot of young, athletic players such as Larry Drew II, Michael Beasley, Charlie Westbrook, Eric Griffin, Justin Hamilton and Jarvis Varnado. All of these players have talent, and plenty of time to develop it. Because of his age, Mason isn’t so lucky. Hopefully NBA playing experience will be enough for Mason to make the final cut.
Jared Doyle is a Miami Heat writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @outofboundsjay, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
