Miami Heat should expand their trade looks to Washington

Other teams’ desperate times should lead to moves for the Miami Heat.

The number one rule of NBA business is to never trust an executive.

Just ask Isaiah Thomas to recount last year’s Danny Ainge feelings. Better yet, consider Miami Heat president Pat Riley’s assertion that he was pulling the plug on the Jimmy Butler trade talk.

The proclamation was not likely a lie, but more of a half-truth. He admitted as much on Thursday, when he said that the team was not pursing trades, however they are listenings; any smart front office would do.

Particularly one that feels the same way about their team as many fans do:

"“Average is not bad,” said Riley. “If you like to be average, then that’s what we were last year and that’s what we’ve been for the last three years. I think this team has a chance to go above that.”"

The statement was a great way to hedge all bets.

He basically announced the organization is not satisfied, but the team—as currently constructed—could still find ways to improve. It was a nice attempt at pacifying the masses, in case they get stuck with this roster.

So why not shake things up with a team in need of a new look?

After their ninth loss in 11 games, the Washington Wizards have gotten off to the most disappointing start in the NBA; which does not really fly when a salary inflated roster is tied with the Phoenix Suns for the second worst record in basketball.

Same goes for the ninth place Heat and their league leading salary cap.

In light of those situations and Miami’s eternal quest for a star, breaking up Washington’s dysfunctional backcourt seems like a way to satisfy Riley’s proclivity for disgruntled game changers.

Everyone knows the years of issues between John Wall and Bradley Beal, as well as the money restraints that will continue to hamper the Heat in next year’s free agency race. There is no new news there.

Yet, a fresh outlook could be had through swapping leadings scorers.

For the Heat, Beal would be a combination of Josh Richardson and Wayne Ellington. Otherwise known as a slashing, 3-point shooter.

As of right now, Beal and Richardson are barely separated in terms of surface stats.

Beal has him slightly beat in scoring, blocks, assists, rebounds and shooting percentage, while Richardson has the slim advantage in steals and 3-point shooting. Throw the thought of an Ellington sided comparison and the deep ball is also there—38 percent career shooting, compared to Beal’s 39 percent.

Though he would not be part of the deal, Richardson’s trade partner would be Tyler Johnson.

Over the last five games, Johnson has overcome early season criticism, to potentially secure a little stock as an add along.

If that makes the timing right, Riley needs to pull the trigger.