Miami Heat Acquire All-Defensive Guard in Proposed Trade

MIAMI, Fla. – Coming off an encouraging five-game West Coast road trip, the Miami Heat are still looking to regain ground in the Eastern Conference standings.

Currently sitting with a 5-6 record and the eighth seed, there are still three months ahead of Feb. 11, 2027's trade deadline. Although only one move has been made this season, Nique Clifford from the Sacramento Kings to the Oklahoma City Thunder for two second-round picks, it doesn't take much for the domino effect to start falling.

The Heat need to maximize on all opportunities that impact championship contention, especially with superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo at the center of it. One candidate that is very likely available is Dejounte Murray. The 30-year-old is currently with the New Orleans Pelicans and off to a slow start this season.

Murray is currently averaging 13.4 points on 43.1 percent shooting, 4.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.6 steals in 31.3 minutes through nine games (all starts). It's been over a year since he suffered an Achilles tendon rupture in late January of 2025. Murray made a return to the court late in the 2026 season, then averaged 16.7 points on 5.4 rebounds, 6.4 assists, and 1.6 steals in 27.8 minutes through 14 games (all starts).

The Pelicans are near the very bottom of the Western Conference standings (12th seed) and a change of scenery would greatly benefit the one-time All-Star.

Murray would bring the Heat a shot-creator, facilitator, and a reputation of well-respected defense to the backcourt.

The 11-year veteran is currently on an expiring contract; a $32.79 million salary this season, then a $30.75 million player option for the 2027-28 season.

A potential trade package of Andrew Wiggins and Nikola Jovic for Murray and Herbert Jones, who has been rumored to be on the trade block, would match salaries and pass through the league's officials, according to the ESPN machine.

It's still early into the season before drastic moves are made, but the Heat could be building up a sense of urgency. An important five-game homestand is approaching:

- Nov. 13: Cleveland Cavaliers*

- Nov. 14: Detroit Pistons*

- Nov. 16: Houston Rockets*

- Nov. 18: Milwaukee Bucks

- Nov. 22: Oklahoma City Thunder*

*A .500 or better record

The Heat have an opportunity to make up for the slow start this season and reclaim championship contention status. Tipoff against the Cavaliers is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. E.T. and will be televised on WPLG Local 10.

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