The Miami Heat are doing decent this season, sitting at 27-24 and in seventh place in the Eastern Conference. However, they lack a true franchise superstar to try and lead their team to the promised land.
The Heat have made it known they’re targeting stars in Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo and Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant, who’ve both been put up for trade by their teams. However, they may not land them. If that’s the case, Fansided’s Christopher Kline predicts that the Heat’s Plan C will be targeting the Los Angeles Clippers’ James Harden.
MORE: Proposed Bucks trade sees Milwaukee not trade Giannis Antetokounmpo at deadline, instead land $81.5 million MVP to create superstar duo with him
The trade would look like this:
Heat get: James Harden
Clippers get: Tyler Herro, Kasparas Jakucionis
“If the Miami Heat strike out on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Ja Morant, history tells us Pat Riley will at least consider Harden. Miami is in constant pursuit of stars and Harden's short-term window may honestly be desirable, as it allows the Heat to maintain flexibility for future moves and whatnot…Harden can make life easier on Bam Adebayo and Kel'el Ware. Miami does not have a playmaker anywhere close to Harden's caliber on the roster. Also, in terms of physical destinations, Harden would probably enjoy the perks of life in South Beach,” Kline wrote.
MORE: Proposed blockbuster Nuggets trade sees Denver land $175 million two-time MVP, Finals MVP to create unstoppable duo with Nikola Jokic
So far this season, Harden is averaging 25.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, 8.1 assists, and 1.3 assists in 35 minutes per game. He’d replace and upgrade the perimeter offense of Herro, while his gravity and playmaking would allow Adebayo and Ware to easily get to the basket for easy points.
Another plus is his contract. He’s only under a two-year, $81.5 million deal, which is less financially straining than either Antetokounmpo’s or Morant’s nine-figure deals.
Hopefully, the Heat keep this deal in their back pocket, just in case their all isn’t good enough for the two superstars ahead of Harden.
MORE NBA CONTENT
What the Mike Conley trade could mean for the Timberwolves' trade deadline aspirations
Massive proposed Timberwolves blockbuster trade sees Minnesota work with three teams to land $81.5 million MVP, create superstar duo with Anthony Edwards
Proposed blockbuster Warriors trade sees Golden State deal Jimmy Butler for $175 million NBA champion, 10-time All-Star