The Heat are surging, but will their long-term vision involve trading a franchise cornerstone? Discover the surprising trade whispers and Bam Adebayo's true value.
The Miami Heat seek to restore balance to the regular season, following a difficult stretch in which they lost nine out of 11 games. Afterwards, the team has strung together four consecutive, convincing victories, with the most recent coming against the one-seeded Detroit Pistons with a final score of 118-112.
Norman Powell led the charge with 36 points, including seven three-pointers made, two rebounds, two assists, and a steal in 35 minutes. It helped improve their record to 19-15, currently sixth in the Eastern Conference standings.
The Heat have the depth and young talent to compete, especially in Nikola Jovic, Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Pelle Larsson, and a new rookie in Kasparas Jakucionis. Would the organization be willing to part ways with star players and strictly focus on development? Now, that doesn't sound like something Pat Riley, President of Basketball Operations, would do.
As a matter of fact, in a recent episode of the "Zach Lowe Show," the longtime NBA analyst wondered if they would ever include three-time All-Star center Bam Adebayo in a trade package. Intel suggests that it's nowhere close to reality.
"I know exactly what he is to that franchise," Lowe said. "He is the standard, the culture there. There's not one part of them that would want to do it. Other teams I know have for sure asked Bam and have been told 'Hell no.'"
Of course, nobody would imagine the Heat rightfully thinking about trading the 28-year-old, but after the Dallas Mavericks made the unprecedented decision to trade superstar Luka Doncic at 25 years old, it broke the image of being "untouchable." Fortunately for the fans in South Florida, Nico Harrison isn't part of the front office.
Also, Adebayo would attract stars, whether it's from free agency or the trade market, to want to play for the Heat.
"As they sniff around at Giannis [Antetokounmpo] and other star players," Lowe added. "All of those star players are going to want to play with Bam."
It's not a secret that the former lottery pick is well-respected around the league, considered one of the best bigs as well. However, this treatment might not translate to All-Star guard Tyler Herro, who's only appeared in six games thus far this season, first recovering from offseason ankle surgery, then battling a right big contusion toe injury.
Adebayo has been the heart and soul of the Heat since joining in 2017, elevating to being more than just the anchor of the defense, but the face of the franchise. After the departure of superstar Jimmy Butler at last season's trade deadline, the keys are in his hands now, and likely for the future.
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