2. Involving a Third Team
Why the Heat do it: Same reasons as above, since nothing really changes on Miami’s end. Perhaps because the Nets are including another first-round pick in the deal the Heat could potentially hold onto one of their own future firsts in 2028 or 2030.
Why the Cavs do it: If they would prefer a forward to play next to Mobley rather than another guard, who could potentially introduce the same issues as Mitchell. Johnson, a knock-down shooter and reliable defender, makes sense as a frontcourt partner next to Mobley or Jarrett Allen.
Why the Nets do it: The Brooklyn Nets are on the team that figure to be in the mix for Mitchell, but if they decide that they don’t want to go all-in on Mitchell, they could hedge by picking up a younger, cheaper, talented scorer in Herro while keeping their powder dry for another big move down the road.