Key Miami Heat Offseason Move To Keep An Eye On

This Miami Heat offseason could spell out an exciting summer with a possible big-name trade provided both parties are mutually interested.

Key Miami Heat Offseason Move To Keep An Eye On

Roster Improvements In Play After Early Playoff Exit

This Miami Heat offseason is poised to include some significant roster changes. One could argue that if injuries hadn’t played a pivotal part in Miami’s playoffs, there’s a possibility that they could have moved on from the first round. Before the postseason tip-off, Miami Heat point guard Terry Rozier was already lost to a neck-related injury. Then, in Miami’s play-in match against the Philadelphia 76ers, Jimmy Butler hit the floor with a lower-body injury that eventually kept him out of the lineup against the Boston Celtics. 

Rumors and talks regarding player extensions, trades, and who Miami should look at this offseason are plenty. Many of these rumors surround Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo’s extension eligibility. Rumors surrounding Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson’s future status with the team, not to mention Terry Rozier. Will this Miami Heat offseason include some roster additions and substructions? It’s highly probable. With several superstar and star names potentially hitting the market, Miami is one of those organizations that has a pension for taking a run at star players. One of these players is Donovan Mitchell.

Miami Could Once Again Look Donovan Mitchell’s Way

The Cleveland Cavaliers bounced out of the playoffs two days ago to Boston. This leaves five-time All-Star’s status with Cleveland possibly in flux. Before Mitchell was traded to the Cavaliers by his former team, the Utah Jazz, the Heat was also interested. Of course, this wouldn’t be the first time that Miami has flirted with Mitchell if they were to give it another go. However, Mitchell is also eligible for a four-year, $208 million contract extension. He could decline an extension from the Cavs making him a free agent in 2025. That extension would factor into Miami’s plans, provided Mitchell had mutual interest. 

Mitchell’s Pure Scoring Abilities

Mitchell has been a perineal All-Star since entering the NBA with Utah. His time paired with Rudy Gobert resulted in postseason appearances in each season Mitchell has been in the league. That consistency carried over to his time in Cleveland, where he made the postseason the last two years since the trade. Although Mitchell has rarely made it deep in the playoffs, he has always been a prolific shooter and playmaker. His past back-and-forth scoring battles in the 2020 bubble with Denver Nuggets point guard Jamal Murray are a testament to his scoring abilities.

In the 2023-2024 season, Mitchell maintained his high-scoring average. He averaged 24.8 points per game while shooting 36 percent from three. His performance in Cleveland’s two playoff rounds this year was even more impressive, with an average of 29.6 points and 4.7 assists in ten games. 

Miami Heat’s Offseason Scoring Solve

The scoring struggles for the Miami Heat are no secret. They were near the bottom of the league this season, averaging 110.1 points per game. Without Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier in the playoffs, the Heat could not keep pace with the Celtics. Mitchell would immediately bring a high-level, high-quality, and consistent scoring threat. His ability to shoot long-range and drive to the basket makes him one of the most talented and gifted offensive players in the NBA. He can create his own shot and shoots 86.5 percent from the foul line. These are all offensive elements that the Miami Heat desperately need.

A Perfect Fit In Miami

The style of play Mitchell presents on the floor is similar to that of former Heat guard Dwayne Wade. Miami would be a much more formidable squad with this scoring ability, ball-handling skills, and overall talent. Another factor to consider is his close relationship with Adebayo. If this Miami Heat offseason does include major roster changes, then running at Mitchell could benefit the Heat for seasons to come. I would venture to say that he would fit perfectly in Miami.