Even though it probably wouldn't be a move that would excite the fan base, there's an argument to be made in favor of taking a flier on Damian Lillard. It's not a move that would immediately pay dividends for the Heat, but one that could make sense if they're willing to be patient with the former All-Star guard.
As ESPN's Bobby Marks points out, even though Lillard is still recovering from an Achilles injury, he should - and could - be one of the most sought-after free agents still on the open market. Adding to that speculation, it's already being reported that the Heat is expected to have interest in signing Lillard. Like the Heat, I'm sure there are going to be plenty of other teams interested. The question is, does Miami still stand out to Lillard?
Just a couple of summers ago, Lillard wanted to be traded to the Heat. It didn't happen, and the Portland Trail Blazers sent him to the Milwaukee Bucks instead. Now that Lillard has control over where he's going to sign next, it'll be interesting to see if much of that interest remains on both sides.
What will Lillard prioritize for his next team?
Much has changed in two years for both Miami and Lillard. The Heat no longer have Jimmy Butler and are far from the contender many considered them to be a couple of years ago. Lillard is also two years older and may be prioritizing something different at this point in his career.
Could there still be a path toward Lillard making sense for the Heat and the Heat making sense for Lillard? Sure. But it's certainly not as simple a seamless as this potential pairing was a couple of years ago.
If it were to happen, Lillard is not coming in to save the franchise, and he wouldn't be viewed as a potential final piece of the championship puzzle anymore.
The Heat haven't done much to this point this offseason, but that could suddenly change if they're willing to play the long game with Lillard. IT appears they'll at least be one of the teams interested in a potential move.