In a proposed trade scenario, the Miami Heat could acquire Zion Williamson in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Davion Mitchell, a protected 2026 first-round pick, and a protected 2030 first-round pick.
After a good start to the season, the Miami Heat are now fighting for a place in the play-in.
For some time now, the Heat have preferred to maintain a flexible salary structure, allowing them to be prepared if any superstars become available via trade.
It's no secret that Miami would like to bring Giannis Antetokounmpo to Florida, but a trade during the season remains complex, despite the difficulties the Bucks have faced this season.
Another big name Miami could target is Zion Williamson, who, given his skill set, could be a good fit for the Heat's offensive system.
The Pelicans, at least so far, have not officially put the player on the market, but it seems clear that New Orleans is beginning to work toward a new era without Williamson.
Given the player's recent injury problems, I suggest a trade proposal that would allow Miami to acquire him without sacrificing too many future assets, provided Pat Riley believes it is the right move for his team.
Credit Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
Zion Williamson trade to Miami Heat
Miami Heat receive
Zion Williamson
New Orleans Pelicans receive
Andrew Wiggins
Davion Mitchell
2026 first-round pick (top-10 protected)
2030 first-round pick (lottery protected)
Why it makes sense for the Heat
The Miami Heat have been looking to add another star to their roster for some time. Their number one target would be Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Still, this season it is not as obvious that the Bucks star will leave Milwaukee, and the Heat need a quality addition immediately if they want a chance at the playoffs this season.
Although Zion Williamson has raised some doubts about his physical condition, the Pelicans star remains extremely intriguing due to his combination of explosiveness and versatility.
His offensive characteristics would fit well with Erik Spoelstra's system, and Miami could use the contracts of Wiggins and Mitchell as bargaining chips, adding two protected future first-round picks, a fair price for a player with Williamson's potential.
Why it makes sense for the Pelicans
The Pelicans have realized that the only way to turn things around is to trade Zion Williamson and build the team around new players.
Given the player's physical problems, it is difficult to imagine the Pelicans getting more than a couple of future first-round picks, along with a few supporting players.
Credit ATP – Scanpix
Mitchell and Wiggins are experienced players, with both of their contracts expiring in 2027.
New Orleans could use them both as trade chips next season or simply let them play out their contracts to have more salary cap space available in the summer of 2027.
Orazio Cauchi
Orazio Cauchi started his career in basketball at 21, having worked for several years at Sportando as the lead writer of the website. He also covered several live events, including the Euroleague Final Four, Italian Cups, Serie A league finals, and EuroBasket. He also contributed to American media, such as LibertyBallers and Def Pen Hoops. Cauchi joined BasketNews in 2021 as a Staff Writer. Holds a degree in Politics & International Relations.
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