The Miami Heat’s recent performance suggests that they will enter the offseason with some future-defining questions to answer. They are likely to be swept out of the first round of the NBA Playoffs by the Boston Celtics, which will result in significant changes this offseason.
According to early reports, the Heat may begin the offseason with plans to chase an All-Star player that fits Bam Adebayo’s timeframe. If that’s the case, the Heat could have lots of attractive targets this summer. Based on that story, we project five top players for the Miami Heat to be “in the mix” this offseason.
Honorable mention: Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls.
With Zach LaVine just turning 29, there’s a chance the Miami Heat will be ready to take a big chance on him. After declining to take a shot on Bradley Beal last summer and seeing how it damaged the team, the Heat’s management office may modify their strategy heading into the offseason.
If Miami could get LaVine for Tyler Herro, one of their young players, and no future first-round picks, I don’t see why the Heat wouldn’t jump at the chance. Especially if the Heat believes it can truly maximize the potential of every player in its system. Even though LaVine’s reputation has suffered recently, he has consistently been a productive player throughout his career.
LaVine was definitely not effective as the Chicago Bulls’ number one option. But LaVine, as a No. 2 or 3 option in Miami, could. If the Heat is willing to negotiate a Herro-LaVine swap, this may be the type of transaction that benefits both sides.