Alternative trade options for the Miami Heat beyond Damian Lillard

Miami Heat pursue potential trade options if they miss out on Damian Lillard.

The Miami Heat, known for their resilience and ability to overcome adversity, are not content with their performance in the previous season. Despite reaching the Finals, they were swiftly eliminated by the Denver Nuggets in a gentlemen's sweep. As a result, the Heat are eager to bolster their roster and surround their star players, Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, with additional talent.

One player who has been heavily linked to the Heat is Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers. Lillard has been carrying the Blazers for years, but the team has struggled to build a contender around him. It is not out of the realm of possibility that Lillard may request a trade, and Miami is rumored to be a potential destination. However, if Portland decides to hold onto their star point guard, the Heat have other options to explore.

The Atlanta Hawks have made it known that almost everyone on their roster, aside from Trae Young, is available for trade. One player who could be a valuable addition to the Heat is Dejounte Murray. Although he had a difficult adjustment period in his new surroundings last season, Murray was an All-Star just a year prior with the San Antonio Spurs. He is also entering the final year of his contract, which could motivate the Hawks to consider trading him.

Murray's contract is relatively affordable, with a salary of $17.7 million in 2023-24. This is well below his on-court value, as he averaged 20.5 points and 6.1 assists on a 54% true shooting percentage last season alongside Trae Young. Additionally, Murray earned All-Defensive team recognition in 2018, showcasing his ability to contribute on both ends of the court.

The Heat are currently facing potential guard depth issues, with Gabe Vincent and Max Strus set to enter free agency. Kyle Lowry, although a skilled player, is on the decline, and Victor Oladipo's health concerns are always a factor. Tyler Herro, while talented offensively, struggles defensively. This is where Murray could be a perfect fit for Miami.

Murray's length and athleticism make him a tenacious on-ball defender, and his playmaking abilities would complement Herro's scoring mentality. While the spacing may not be ideal with Murray, Butler, and Adebayo on the court together, the Heat have proven to be adept at maximizing the talents of their players, even when they don't perfectly mesh.

In conclusion, while the Miami Heat have their sights set on Damian Lillard, they have other options to explore if a trade does not materialize. Dejounte Murray of the Atlanta Hawks could be a valuable addition to the Heat's backcourt, providing defensive prowess and playmaking abilities. The Heat are determined to improve their roster and make another deep playoff run, and acquiring Murray could be a step in the right direction.