Heat Could Benefit from an Offseason Russell Westbrook Punch

The Miami Heat entered this offseason on the heels of a massive distraction-riddled campaign. The Jimmy Butler circus loom over the franchise until the league’s second-loudest trade of the season went through. Miami’s contention this season was iffy with and without Butler, so it’s possible the development didn’t change much in the end. The Heat were faltering all season and eventually sputtered out of the picture in a four-game sweep in round one of the playoffs. Changes were inevitable, even before the regular season was coming to a close. Changes in the front office were speculated, mainly with Pat Riley, and changes to the roster were also expected, even more so now. Miami has some considerable flaws that need filling, and the point guard position is one of them. That’s where the Heat and an offseason involving Russell Westbrook have some potential.

Heat Could Benefit from an Offseason Russell Westbrook Punch

Russell Westbrook seen as possible fit with Miami Heat should he leave the Denver Nuggets

Terry Rozier was simply not the answer Riley was hoping for when a 2024 trade deadline move for the long-time Charlotte Hornets veteran was made. Fast forward a full season later, and Rozier remains not the answer. That leaves Miami needing a reliable point guard, as Rozier is likely out in due time. As with most summers over the years, the Heat are a prime suspect of a potential blockbuster offseason move. Then again, they were last summer, but nothing dropped. Considering how this past season went, Butler gone, and the roster needing some leadership and position fills, Miami is expected to be a significant player on the free agent or trade market.

When it comes to point guards, a handful of players are hitting the market this offseason. However, some of the would-be most coveted ones have player options attached to their contracts. This factor makes them less likely to become available. Kyrie Irving and James Harden are two players with options, and each is expected to opt in. Fred VanVleet, although, depending on the direction the Houston Rockets want to go for next season, could become available, he also holds a player option.

The same goes for Westbrook, who is coming off a solid first regular season run with the Denver Nuggets but an underperforming playoff run. Westbrook has one year left on his two-year deal, but his player option could change things this summer. If he were to opt out and look to the market to play elsewhere, Miami could and should pounce.

Miami could truly benefit from Westbrook’s experience

Westbrook and the Heat have been linked for a couple of years now, and that connection could continue this offseason. Everything that makes up Westbrook as a player is exactly what the Heat need, which could make him a potential target.

Westbrook has experienced a significant dip in offensive production and efficiency over the past few years. Yet, you cannot question his drive, motivation, work ethic, or desire to play basketball. Even at 36 years old, he always goes full throttle. It can, at times, get him in trouble, but at the same time, it’s an element of his game that earns him such high respect.

If he opts out in Denver, and Miami’s past interest extends to the present, adding Westbrook to the fold has the makings of a perfect partnership. Whether he would be the only guard Miami pursues and adds is something only time will tell. Nevertheless, if you believe in Heat culture, Westbrook fits the brand.

 

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