The Miami Heat are obviously in win-now mode. Winning while Jimmy Butler is still in his prime is the main goal for not only the front office but for Heat fans everywhere.
However, let’s not forget that not only is Jimmy about to be 32. The Heat’s future is waiting to take over in the form of Bam Adebayo. I think building around Adebayo’s timeline is something the Heat would benefit much more from in the short term and especially in the long term.
A team with young stars surrounding Butler and other veterans could prove to bring the Heat much success. That being said, here are 3 young stars that could help give the Heat the boost they need.
Young players the Miami Heat should target: Brandon Ingram
Recent reports speculate that 24-year-old Brandon Ingram would welcome a trade to the Miami Heat. Obviously, the Heat would have to part ways with assets such as Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson, and Precious Achiuwa, but Ingram would add much-needed offense to the Heat’s lineup.
Ingram has averaged 23.8 points per game in each of the last two campaigns on above-average efficiency. Those numbers alone would make him the Heat’s best offensive player.
He is the definition of a three-level scorer, being lethal offensively from all parts of the floor. A big three of Ingram, Adebayo, and Butler would be an immediate contender in the East, especially if Bam and Ingram continue to improve and develop.
Thinking long term, a duo of Ingram and Bam would be one of the better pairings to watch for the future. Both are extremely talented offensively and Bam is a Defensive Player of the Year candidate right now, and will surely win it eventually.
A pairing that is that skilled on both sides of the floor would run through the East for years to come and put the Miami Heat in Finals contention now and for the foreseeable future. Acquiring Brandon Ingram would make sure that Miami stays a winning franchise right now, and for years to come.