The Miami Heat might have a lot of big decisions to make this summer.
Although their season isn’t officially over yet, they are on the verge of being pushed out of the playoffs before they even begin.
Friday night’s final play-in game will decide much for Jimmy Butler and his crew.
There is already plenty of talk about what the team will do in the offseason if they don’t achieve success on Friday.
The general consensus among analysts and insiders is that the Heat will attempt to land a star in the summer.
Brian Windhorst said that the Heat are a team to watch when it comes to landing Damian Lillard, currently of the Portland Trail Blazers.
Heat insider Barry Jackson isn’t so sure that Lillard is headed to South Beach but he did say that the team “will renew efforts to land a star this offseason.”
“Only question is who (if anyone) would be big enough to make them consider dealing Butler or Bam,” he added.
Heat will renew efforts to land a star this offseason. Only question is who (if anyone) would be big enough to make them consider dealing Butler or Bam. (Not talking about Lillard specifically). That's the biggest question of offseason, one they'll need to seriously discuss https://t.co/rcKzngChT3
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) April 13, 2023
The idea of the Heat acquiring Lillard – or trading away Butler or Bam Adebayo – received a huge reaction online.
Some of the responses were positive and some were very negative.
Numerous people thought the concept of Adebayo being moved in place of Lillard sounded silly.
The Heat aren't trading Bam for a aging guard who doesn't play Defense
— Brandon Odell (@sportsfanatic39) April 13, 2023
If Portland decides to go the route of rebuilding around their two young talent players then wouldn’t it makes sense for them to load up on picks?
— Sports4natic 🍥 (@JG_MIA_305) April 13, 2023
Certain people were excited about the idea of Lillard playing alongside Butler.
They are assuming that the Heat send Adebayo and Tyler Herro back to Rip City in his place.
Bam and Herro gone! Dame plus Jimmy! I like it!
— Marcelo (@MarceloMelo25) April 13, 2023
Then there were many who felt that the addition of Lillard in any sort of combination of Miami players wouldn’t be enough to “move the needle” and find victory.
Dame & Butler & Herro doesn’t move the needle and neither does Dame with Bam & Herro.
Need to somehow get a star next to Bam & Butler.
— Tony Adjian (@King_Tiko) April 13, 2023
Over the last few days, there has been so much speculation about both Lillard and the Heat.
It’s clear that this is a player and a team to keep a close eye on in the months ahead.
Big changes could be coming.
NEXT: Brian Windhorst Names 1 Team To Watch For Damian Lillard Trade
