Miami Heat: Here’s to hoping for a James Johnson buyout

Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) drives the ball around Minnesota Timberwolves forward James Johnson (16)(Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports)
Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) drives the ball around Minnesota Timberwolves forward James Johnson (16)(Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports)
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Miami Heat
Orlando Magic guard Michael Carter-Williams (7) avoids Miami Heat forward Derrick Jones Jr. (5) and forward James Johnson (16)(Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports)

The Miami Heat could again use a guy like James Johnson. It isn’t a definite possibility yet, but the air is ripe for the dominoes to start falling into place.

On The Move Again… But That’s Good For A Potential Suitor Like Miami

He was recently traded again to the Oklahoma City Thunder, after picking up the option for this year on his contract. The Thunder would have to waive him or buy him out first.

The Miami Heat won’t trade for his contract back, by any means, but that’s alright. He’s a prime candidate to be bought out.

The Thunder are going young and apparently looking to build around Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. They did bring in Al Horford from Philly, but that was about taking on an undesirable contract for an asset more than anything else.

They are reportedly looking to move on from Steven Adams, who’s another interesting Heat option if bought out because his contract is massive as well, relatively, but that’s also a different topic in itself.

It matters here because it screams that they aren’t long for a guy like JJ. There is a chance that they keep him, which is just as good a chance as it is that they allow him to walk after a buyout.

Let’s hope that they choose the latter. He could really be a big help to Miami with his versatility, toughness, and likely cheap pricetag if waived by OKC.

I hope it happens. Come on… home-ish… JJ.