The Miami Heat are always looking for the next “whale.” The winning culture of the team, coaching staff and geographic location of being in South Florida always makes the Heat an attractive player destination. Pat Riley and Andy Elisburg have led the way over the years in bringing in franchise-altering talents like LeBron James, Chris Bosh and Jimmy Butler over recent years. They have also re-tooled to bring in all-star caliber players to shape up rosters.
Miami was close to pulling it off again when superstar Damian Lillard requested to be traded to the Heat last summer. Unfortunately, some circumstances with Lillard’s former team being unwilling to accommodate his request couldn’t make it work out.
With another offseason on the horizon, the Heat franchise may have another chance for a big move. Donovan Mitchell has been reportedly set to hit the trade market, but he is not expected to sign an extension with his current Cleveland Cavaliers team. Because of this, it makes sense for the Cavs to want to get something in return for a player like him rather than lose him in free agency for nothing. Mitchell is a bonafide star talent in this league that is just starting to hit his prime.
He was traded to Cleveland from the Utah Jazz two summers ago, but now, with his contract expiring, he will have more control over where he would like to play. Mitchell has been linked to the Heat several times in the past. He has a great relationship with Bam Adebayo and notable respect for the Heat organization and former franchise player Dwyane Wade.
ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski mentioned on NBA Countdown that he expects a lot more player movement this summer. In regards to the Heat specifically, he noted that they will be well-positioned to potentially acquire a star who aligns with Adebayo’s age timeline. Adebayo is 26 years old. Mitchell is 27. This is a pairing that fits that description perfectly.
Mitchell’s fit on the Heat would immediately provide a much-needed offensive jolt. He is a consistent scoring guard who can create for himself and others. A player like him can take the load off an aging Jimmy Butler, and help maximize his title window while also building something with Adebayo longer term. Mitchell has averaged 26.6 points, 6.1 assists and 5.1 rebounds this season.
It is tough to expect any trade to work out without unloading Tyler Herro and at least one of Jaime Jaquez Jr or Nikola Jovic, along with draft compensation. Getting the salaries to match up perfectly could also be difficult, but the Heat can always get a third team involved to make it happen.