The Miami Heat find themselves in a state of mediocrity, and it’s clear that team president Pat Riley would rather push for title contention than undergo a rebuild.
While the All-Star pairing of Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo provides solid support, neither has demonstrated the ability to lead a championship team as the primary option. Acquiring a superstar who surpasses the recently traded Jimmy Butler could be the key to another NBA Finals run.
According to Bleacher Report, the Heat are expected to trade former No. 1 pick Andrew Wiggins, struggling guard Terry Rozier, and draft capital in exchange for Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant.
“Why, you ask, would they do that for a pair of role players in Rozier and Wiggins? Well, Phoenix needs a fresh start,” B/R’s Andy Bailey explained. “Wiggins and Rozier are both on movable contracts that could be dealt next season. And the organization is in dire need of draft capital.”
Wiggins has delivered exactly what was expected of him in Miami, averaging 17.8 points on inefficient shooting across six games. Though he played a crucial role in the Golden State Warriors’ 2022 championship run, parting with him seems like a worthwhile price to acquire someone of Durant’s caliber.
Meanwhile, the Heat’s front office initially hoped Rozier would complement Herro in the backcourt, but his performance has instead declined. As a result, moving on from him is unlikely to face much opposition from team decision-makers.
