NBA Trade Rumors: 5 bold predictions for the trade deadline

MIAMI, FL – OCTOBER 09: Hassan Whiteside #21 of the Miami Heat looks on during a preseason game against the Charlotte Hornets at American Airlines Arena on October 9, 2017 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Heat move Whiteside

MIA gets- Julius Randle, Jordan Clarkson, Josh Hart, Corey Brewer

LAL gets – Hassan Whiteside, Justise Winslow

So the Heat is back to doing that thing where they start slow and then go on a ridiculous streak. Their defense is back to being suffocating; Josh Richardson is coming fast, and Goran Dragic is steady as ever. Kelly Olynk at center has unleashed some deadly lineups, and rookie Bam Adebayo is getting better by the game.

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That may make someone like Hassan Whiteside expendable. Whiteside has struggled with injuries, and his contract is massive. Even though the market for centers is small Whiteside is Miami’s most tradeable asset. Their other asset is Justise Winslow, who has also has been struggling with injuries. Before he was injured, he was showing some use as a small ball four, who can guard all five positions.

Sending Whiteside and Winslow to the Lakers could get the Lakers a good return. They won’t get the first round pick they are seeking, but Randle would be a massive upgrade at the four and can play some center. Clarkson would bring much-needed scoring off the bench, Miami is still only 22nd in offense. Also, Dion Waiters is now out for the season.

Josh Hart fits the Heat culture like a glove. A scrappy guard who can defend and play within a system. Corey Brewer is a filler, who can play only if needed.

For the Lakers, this is a trade that gets value for players you are going to get rid of anyway. Randle and Clarkson have 0% chance of staying, so this is a good return for both of them. Whiteside is an immediate defensive anchor for the Lakers and gives them rim protection and a force on the boards. Brook Lopez can come off the bench, and the second unit can run the offense through him.

Justise Winslow is still young and has a lot of upsides. His defensive versatility instantly helps the Lakers and protects their young guys from tougher matchups. This trade gives them two defensive guys to complement their young guys in Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma, and Lonzo Ball.