Could Joel Embiid's offensive dominance transform the Miami Heat's offense? A star big man pairing ignites tantalizing playoff possibilities, but injury and fit risks loom.
On Kevin Garnett's recent podcast, he talked about the Miami Heat potentially trading for Sixers star Joel Embiid.
The idea feels a bit fantastical, but it also contains some logic. The Heat just finished the season 43-39 and 10th in the East, with a respectable defense, but a roster that lacked the kind of offensive engine that Embiid has always been. Miami's identity has always been built on structure, discipline, and toughness. Embiid, even after battling injuries, still averaged 26.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.9 assists this season and posted a 118.5 offensive rating when he was on the floor for Philadelphia
That is why the fit is tempting. Miami's offensive rating sat at an above-average 115.8 and a 104.2 pace, the fastest in the league, but the Heat still lacked a reliable answer when possessions slowed down. Embiid would instantly change that. He gives the team a three-level scorer who can get to the line and create his own shot against any defense in the league.
However, the Heat have a playstyle that Embiid is not used to, one that relies on a fast pace and fewer isolation attempts. This more modern approach to the sport may be tough for Embiid to get used to, as he thrives in the halfcourt and takes his time to get to his spot. But if the learning curve isn't too severe and the Heat adjust to a slower tempo, then his fit next to another star big man could be great.
The Bam Adebayo angle is where the conversation gets interesting. Adebayo finished the season averaging 20.1 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, which tells you how much of Miami's offense runs through him. In a best-case version of this trade, Bam could slide into a secondary role, supporting the offense while remaining the fantastic defender he has always been. That frontcourt pairing could be devastating in the playoffs, Bam being the team's defensive anchor and secondary scorer, while Embiid can function as the offensive focal point.
Overall, if Miami could match salaries and accommodate Embiid's playstyle, this could be beneficial. But Miami still needs to be aware of the potential injury risk that could turn this trade into a disaster. The reason you would still pull the trigger on a deal is due to Embiid being able to change a series when he is on the floor. Talent is never going to be an issue for him, but his availability could make a team hesitate when preparing a deal.
Join The 76ersRoundtable Community
Head over to the 76ersRoundtable page and hit the "Join" button under the featured story... it's completely FREE! You'll have the opportunity to engage with other 76ers fans who live and breathe the team, share your thoughts on the organization, and more. If you're asked to sign up or download the Roundtable app... that's free too.
Wes Dixon is a contributing writer to 76ersRoundtable. He can be reached at dixonwesley286@gmail.com.