The Miami Heat have been close to a Championship on two occasions in the Jimmy Butler era. ‘Playoff Jimmy’ has guided them to the NBA Finals twice, but on both occasions, they were unable to get over the last hurdle and capture the ring.
After last season’s first-round playoff elimination, it is quite clear that the Heat need to bring in reinforcements if they are to make another run at a Championship.
The problem is that they are not in a great position when it comes to pulling off trades. So, the Heat might need to get creative.
Interestingly, Zach LaVine is someone with whom the Chicago Bulls are believed to be very open to parting ways, even though there seems to be very little trade interest in the player.
A large part of that is because of his gigantic contract. LaVine agreed to a five-year, $215 million extension with the Bulls just a couple of summers back.
The size of that contract has dominated the narrative whenever the idea of a potential LaVine trade has been proposed. But one cannot forget that the 29-year-old is a two-time All-Star and a great scorer on his day although he leaves a lot to be desired on the other end of the court.
Would someone like LaVine get the Heat closer to a Championship? On Last Word on Sports, Frederick Okocha wrote: “For a team like the Miami Heat, who have been on the brink of another championship, LaVine should be a trade target. His ability to create his own shot would alleviate some of the offensive burden away from Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.”
Of course, it would be a major risk bringing in LaVine. Not only does he have a massive contract but has also faced injury troubles.
On the flip side of the coin, it is a risk that could pay off big and get the Heat back into contention, if LaVine can rediscover his best form in Miami.
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