Following last Thursday's indictment related to a two-pronged gambling scandal, the NBA has placed Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier on leave. Initially, it was believed that Rozier would continue to receive his salary during this period. However, recent reports indicate that he will not be compensated for his time off, at least for the time being.
According to the Miami Herald, the NBA has decided to place Rozier's salary into an interest-bearing escrow account while his criminal prosecution is underway. This decision has raised questions about the implications for Rozier, especially considering the potential length of his leave of absence.
The NBA Players Association has expressed its disagreement with the league's decision regarding Rozier's salary. The union has vowed to challenge this move through “the proper channels,” indicating a potential legal battle ahead as they seek to ensure Rozier's rights are protected during this challenging time.
Prior to this latest development, the NBA conducted an investigation into Rozier after sportsbooks flagged irregular betting activity concerning his “under” props in a March 2023 game. The league ultimately found “insufficient evidence” of any wrongdoing, which adds another layer of complexity to the current situation.
The ongoing question surrounding whether Rozier will receive his salary during this extended leave of absence will likely be resolved through the grievance procedures outlined in the league's Collective Bargaining Agreement. As this situation develops, all eyes will be on how the NBA and the Players Association navigate this unprecedented scenario.
