The NBA trade deadline had a flurry of big moves, shifting the landscape of the league. However, the Miami Heat were one of the few teams to stand pat, only making a minor move, which was surprising. Miami had been linked to many different names but did not make a move.
While this is disappointing, they can still make some moves through the buyout market. The Heat is not a team that is about to rebuild, as they have a quality core. They sit at 30-25, putting them in 6th place in the Eastern Conference.
With the Brooklyn Nets trading away Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant, Miami could jump up to the 5th seed. They are led by Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and Tyler Herro, with surrounding pieces like Kyle Lowry, Victor Oladipo, Gabe Vincent, Max Strus, Duncan Robinson, and Orlando Robinson.
It’s a team with some solid star power but lacks depth. Making an addition on the buyout market is a must for the Heat if they want to be among the contenders in the Eastern Conference.
Butler has proven to elevate his game when it matters most in the playoffs. However, the competition is tougher in the East this season, and adding more depth would go a long way in making a run.