The Miami Heat's solid season will presumably encourage the team to make a deal prior to the trade deadline. There seems to be a multitude of stars available in trade discussions as we enter the new year.
Bleacher Report released an article, highlighting three potential trade targets for every NBA franchise. The Heat's first target: Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
"As a founding member of the 'Hoping Giannis Antetokounmpo Requests Out' club, the Miami Heat need to base anything they do at the trade deadline around his availability," the article wrote. "They can't come close to building the best package, but Kel'el Ware's ascent plus the prospect of asset-rich teams sitting out any midseason sweepstakes could work in their favor. After that, the Heat should gravitate toward higher-profile players who fit their drive-without-screens modus operandi and don't bankrupt their asset stores or future flexibility."
Antetokounmpo is one of the best players in the entire league and players of his caliber don't usually hit the trade block. If there is any way the team can acquire him, it would take a lot of compensation. If Miami still wants another star player but not as expensive, Bleacher Report also suggests New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson as a target.
"Zion Williamson is perfect for Miami's offense, particularly if you trust Ware's and Bam Adebayo's ability to space beyond the arc," the article added. "Between his checkered availability and a contract that protects his incumbent team from said checkered availability, the Heat might be able to swing a star-sized dice roll without forfeiting many assets or much flexibility."
Williamson was once viewed among the league's best young players but his injury history and weight concerns have prevented him from fully becoming a top-20 player in the league. His time in New Orleans seems to be running out and the Heat could be a team to take a chance on the former No. 1 overall pick.
Finally, if Miami wants to add an upcoming free agent for a playoff push, Bleacher Report suggests Indiana Pacers wing Bennedict Mathurin as the third and final target.
"Miami has diversified its offensive approach in recent weeks, but Bennedict Mathurin's leanings jibe with its underlying no-screen philosophy," the article concluded. "He is an iffier fit relative to the speed at which they play. "The 23-year-old is nevertheless getting buckets for an Indiana Pacers squad that still likes to run, and a change-of-pace weapon will come in handy during the postseason. Landing him will cost Miami…something. But Mathurin's market value shouldn't be astronomical when he's headed for restricted free agency."
Mathurin was an integral piece of the Pacers' magical playoff run last season but the team is in disarray this year with Tyrese Haliburton sidelined. With his impending restricted free agency, the Pacers could opt to part ways.
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