NBA trade season is officially upon us, with the February 6 deadline quickly approaching. Although Jimmy Butler’s saga has taken a lot of headlines, there is another All-Star caliber player that is being linked to the Miami Heat.
Sacramento Kings point guard De’Aaron Fox has failed to reach a contract extension, and he remains one of the top marquee names on the trade market. For multiple years, it’s seemed like Miami has been anticipating pursuing a star that aligns more with Bam Adebayo’s timeline. Arguably nobody fits that description more than Fox, as the two played together in college for Kentucky.
The on-court fit in Miami would be intriguing, as he is putting up 26.2 points, 6.1 assists and 5.0 rebounds on 48.2% shooting for the Kings this season. Although Fox isn’t known as an outside shooter, his rim pressure when attacking the basket and two-way abilities pose as a nice pairing alongside Tyler Herro in the backcourt. Herro could provide the shooting to bring that balance as Fox can focus on his own game.
The Miami Heat are a ‘team to watch’ to acquire De’Aaron Fox, due to his connection with Bam Adebayo.
According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, there has been “talk about Miami” when it comes to a potential destination for Fox:
"If Fox asks out, teams like San Antonio and Houston are the ones to watch," MacMahon said. "I’ve also heard rumors about the Lakers, but it’s hard to tell how much of that is just speculation because he’s a Klutch client. There’s also been talk about Miami, given his connection to Bam Adebayo. Who knows what other suitors might emerge, or which of these teams will actually pursue him if it comes to that?"
Any framework for a potential deal would need clarity on Butler’s situation, and if he decides to buy in with the Heat for the remainder of the season. Riley’s recent statement that expressed he will not be trading the star has shifted all the pressure towards Butler. The ball is in his court if he prefers to make things ugly and force his way out.
His status is important in landing Fox, considering he could be used in a three-team deal that works for both sides. If not, a package around Terry Rozier, Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Nikola Jovic, along with some draft capital, would need to be utilized to bring in Fox from Sacramento.
He is a one-time All-Star, All-NBA talent and was the league leader in steals last season. His rise in the league has seen a steady increase in offense, averaging over 25+ points in four of the last five seasons. The potential in the pick and roll between him and Adebayo would provide another game changing element. He is also one of the more clutch players in the league, bringing another closing option to coach Erik Spoelstra’s lineups.
The Kings guard is the same age as Adebayo at 27 years old. Throwing Herro into the mix could form a legitimate big three, or core four if Butler sticks around, that could make some noise in the Eastern Conference.
It’s yet to be seen if Fox can eventually shake free from Sacramento, but the Heat should be active in exploring such a move prior to the deadline.