5 Trades Heat should make over waiting for Damian Lillard
By Tyler Watts
The Miami Heat missed out on Bradley Beal as he was traded to the Phoenix Suns on Sunday. It is no secret that Miami plans on shaking things up and chasing a star this summer. They have Tyler Herro and three first-round draft picks to offer, but who can they land?
Chris Haynes reported that the Heat are focused on acquiring Blazers star Damian Lillard. The seven-time All-Star would be a fantastic fit, but there is no guarantee that he will ask out. Lillard has been committed to Portland for 11 years and has said several times that he wants to be like Dirk Nowitzki and spend his entire career on one team. There is no guarantee that Miami wins the bidding war for him, even if he does hit the market.
The Heat should be all-in right now. The new CBA has front offices eager to make moves and reshape their rosters. Star talent is available, and Miami needs more if they plan on winning their fourth championship.
Trades Miami Heat should make over waiting for Damian Lillard
5. Heat get Mikal Bridges as Nets go full rebuild
Bridges has never been an All-Star, but he blossomed after being traded to Brooklyn where he averaged 26.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.0 steal in 34.2 minutes per game. The 26-year-old is just entering his prime and would give the Heat another dynamic wing to help lead their roster.
Is Bridges available? The Nets might say no, but that could change quickly. Brooklyn does not have the pieces to seriously contend. Does that force them to change course and head into a total rebuild, despite not controlling their picks?
The Heat would have to make Brooklyn an offer they could not refuse. Herro is 23 years old, and he could blossom as the top option on the Nets. Even if he cannot lead them to contention, Brooklyn could trade him for a haul if he continues to improve. The Nets also get three first-round picks in this deal.
The Heat expand the trade to get two quality role players along with Bridges. Brooklyn is heading into a rebuild, so Mills and Finney-Smith are expendable. They would help the Heat round out their rotation and improve their title chances.
Can the Miami Heat convince the Nets to trade Mikal Bridges? It is worth a shot, and Pat Riley has plenty of other options if Brooklyn holds firm on keeping the talented wing.