The Miami Heat have remained relatively quiet while other Eastern Conference teams have made significant moves this offseason. Their most notable addition has been Alec Burks, but the roster appears weaker after losing Caleb Martin to the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency. The Heat seem to be banking on a healthier squad next season to improve their chances. However, even with a full roster, it feels like teams such as the 76ers, Boston Celtics, and New York Knicks are ahead of them.
If the Heat want to be serious contenders, they might need to make a big move—possibly a mid-season trade. Last year, they were strong favorites to land Damian Lillard, but he ultimately joined the Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks had an early playoff exit last season, and if their struggles continue, the Heat could reignite their pursuit of Lillard. In a recent article, Wes Goldberg speculated that if the Bucks’ season falters, Miami might call about Lillard. With two-and-a-half years left on his contract, Milwaukee might want to get younger and cheaper around Giannis Antetokounmpo. Tyler Herro and other assets could potentially interest the Bucks, giving the Heat a chance to reunite Lillard with Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler.
Of course, this scenario is filled with uncertainties. For now, the Heat are sticking with their current roster, and while they’ve exceeded expectations before, it remains to be seen if they can pull off another deep playoff run under Erik Spoelstra.
