NBA Trade Rumors: Heat Could Pull Off Surprise In Coming Weeks

The Miami Heat are making a good account of themselves this season as they find themselves in the upper part of the NBA Eastern Conference. Despite the acquisition of Jimmy Butler, not many expected the South Beach squad to fare this well.

With the NBA playoffs within reach, team president Pat Riley may now be mapping on the best move/s he can do for the team as far as personnel is concerned. The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching and there are several players on his end that have often been mentioned in trade rumors.

Among the names that most feel would be dealt soon include Dion Waiters, James Johnson, and Goran Dragic. These are the same players who have hold hefty deals but have not performed at the level Miami had hoped. A name that has been suggested is Kevin Love, someone who also owns an expensive contract per a previous report. But the Cavs prefer to get younger players plus future picks, something Riley and company are unlikely to give up.

Aside from Love, the Heat could pull off something before the Feb. 6 NBA trade deadline. And according to a report from ESPN, it seems that Riley remains focused on getting another asset.

"They’ll keep looking to add another star this season or this summer, though any such deal could cut into their ability to get a big free agent in 2021. But any doubts about Riley’s ability to make a major move should be suspended. Riley is feeling lucky," the source stated.

The thing here is that Riley is no stranger when it comes to building successful NBA teams. Proof of that is the three NBA titles the Heat own. Prior to that, he was also responsible for the Lakers' four NBA titles. But the question now is who will he bring in to help Butler and the young core?

Kendrick Nunn, Tyler Herro, and Duncan Robinson have been performing well beside Butler. Young and promising, it would not come as a surprise if other teams would inquire about their availability. But like most teams, Riley may only agree if he gets someone equal or better. Judging by the success of the Heat right now, it would take a lot to convince him to trade off these stars.

Hence, if any trade is happening, it may not involve Herro, Robinson or Nunn. Instead, it could be the vets mentioned earlier plus perhaps Kelly Olynyk, another player who has underperformed this season.