Miami Heat: 5 key questions to keep an eye on as free agency looms
By Duncan Smith
What of the young core?
On this roster laden with bad contracts and expensive veterans, thankfully there is an oasis in the form of the young core. Bam Adebayo, Josh Richardson and Justise Winslow make up the collective centerpiece of youth for this team.
While Richardson has another three years and $31.6 million left on his contract and Justise Winslow’s 3-year, $39 million contract extension kicks in this summer, Adebayo is still on his rookie contract which is worth $8.57 million over the next two years. This affordable salary makes Adebayo’s contract both the most valuable to the Heat, and the most desirable for any team they may make a major trade with.
Most likely, the young core will remain with the Heat and continue to grow together as they try to become the centerpiece of the next great Miami Heat dynasty, but any team making a trade of significance will want a shot at this trio.
If there is a path to a trade for a star, however, it goes through this group. There’s no way to land a big fish without giving up one or more of Adebayo, Richardson and Winslow, but that price may ultimately be worth it if a blockbuster deal can be made.