5 Moves Heat should make if Damian Lillard trade falls through
By Tyler Watts
4. Wait for Donovan Mitchell
Mitchell is not available right now, but he could be soon. The four-time All-Star has two years left on his contract, and the Cavaliers will be forced to explore his market if he refuses an extension next summer. Cleveland needs to take a step forward this year to keep him long-term and the pressure is on.
The Miami Heat will be lurking and hoping the two sides cannot agree. This won’t help them in the 2023-24 campaign, but Pat Riley and company could keep the powder dry for next summer with Mitchell near the top of their wish list.
The 26-year-old is coming off arguably the best season of his career where he averaged 28.3 points, 4.4 assists 4.3 rebounds, and 1.5 steals in 35.8 minutes. Mitchell lifted the Cavaliers to the playoffs for the first time since LeBron left and had the most efficient year of his career. He would be a fantastic fit next to Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo and could push the Heat over the mountain.
Pat Riley wants another star to bring him a third championship in Miami. Upgrading from Tyler Herro to Donovan Mitchell could be the move that lifts the Heat, but are they willing to wait one year? If not, Riley could try to shake loose a star in the final year of his deal.