6 win-now Miami Heat trade targets to watch if Pat Riley wants to go all-in

If the Heat are willing to make a smaller trade, several players could be available that would help them maximize their championship window.

Mar 1, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA;  Chicago Bulls guard Alex Caruso (6) dribbles on Detroit
Mar 1, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Alex Caruso (6) dribbles on Detroit | Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
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4. Alex Caruso

Alex Caruso
Orlando Magic v Chicago Bulls | Quinn Harris/GettyImages

The Heat have been linked to the bigger-named Bulls, Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan, but the better fit is probably Alex Caruso.

Caruso meets Miami’s needs for an elite point-of-attack defender and capable 3-point shooter (career 38% 3-point shooter) who doesn’t need the ball to make an impact. At 29, he’s a better defender and more consistent shooter at this stage than the 37-year-old Lowry and could be a long-term answer at the position.

Caruso is under contract for $9.5 million this season and $9.9 million next season, making him one of the better values in the league. The Bulls, should they make him available, will have plenty of offers. Insiders believe the Bulls could get back two first-round picks in a deal.

The easiest way for the Heat to make the money work is to offer something like Caleb Martin and Jovic ($9.1 million combined), plus whatever draft capital on top.

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