3 Heat players who might be expendable

The Miami Heat like their team but, deep down, they know they aren't the favorites to win the East. When the February trade deadline comes, it will be interesting to see what Miami will do.

Miami is a serious contender in the East and still has some assets available to use in the trade market, whether it be to acquire another point guard or an upgrade at other positions. While a move isn't necessary now, things could change in the next couple of months. If the Heat determine changes need to be made, here are three players that could be deemed expendable.

1. Caleb Martin

I would like Martin to be part of the future but, if he opts out of his player option next season, the Heat could have a hard time re-signing him. With that in mind, it might be prudent for the Heat to trade him now as opposed to letting him walk for nothing.

Martin does play a significant role and brings some needed athleticism to the roster. He has the ability to consistently get to the rim and, when his 3-point shot is falling, he becomes a bona fide game-changer.

With all of this said, the Heat have enough wing depth that Martin could be traded to upgrade the point guard position. He has trade value around the league and could be an ideal addition for another contender. The Heat, in win-now mode themselves, could choose to play out the season and risk him leaving in free agency, like they did with Gabe Vincent and Max Strus last season. After a slow start, Martin is rounding into form and is still among Miami's best players. It will take a great return for the Heat to be convinced to trade him now.

Predication : Martin doesn’t get traded