Trail Blazers make a flurry of moves at the trade deadline

A source also said it’s still “to be determined” whether Stokes is on the Pelicans’ official roster by the end of Thursday.

The Heat’s goal was clear heading into the deadline, as they wanted to cut their tax bill by as much as they possibly could.

This move is of a similar ilk to the one which sent Chris Andersen to the Memphis Grizzlies earlier this week – a tax-saving measure that’ll help to reduce the team’s overall luxury-tax obligation.

In four seasons with New Orleans and Charlotte, Roberts, 30, is averaging 7.4 points (41.2% FG, 35.2% 3-PT, 91.9% FT), 1.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists over 252 games (57 starts).

From the Pelicans, Miami will receive the rights to a protected future second-round selection in exchange for Stokes and $700,000-plus in cash considerations.

Miami Heat have traded Brian Roberts to the Portland Trail Blazers.

Stokes has been only a minor contributor for the Miami Heat this season and has spent considerable time in the D-League. By getting Roberts’ salary off the books, the Heat no longer have to pay any luxury taxes; instead they will be receiving money from the teams that are over the tax.