NBA Rumors: Christian Wood may sign with Heat, if they land Dame Lillard
NBA Rumors: The Miami Heat could emerge as a landing spot for Christian Wood if they can finalize a trade for Damian Lillard.
It’s been pretty clear that, despite the additions of Josh Richardson and Thomas Bryant in free agency, the focus for the Miami Heat has been Damian Lillard. It’s been almost three weeks since he demanded a trade from the Portland Trail Blazers (while naming the Heat as his only preferred destination). There hasn’t been much traction on a trade to send Lillard to Miami, but that hasn’t forced the Heat to lose focus on their true prize of the offseason.
Because of their sole focus on Lillard, though, there’s been a few possible free agents that the Heat might’ve missed on. At this point, it doesn’t make sense for them to pursue free agents if they genuinely believe they have a real shot to land Lillard. And it’s clear that they do believe that.
That means that the Heat likely isn’t going to finish filling out their roster until there’s some sort of resolution regarding Damian Lillard.
Ideally, the Heat is able to acquire him via trade (and soon), opening the door for the Heat to fill out their roster by signing free agents to the minimum.
If that does end up happening, one free agent that could – and should – be on the Heat’s radar is Christian Wood. And according to a recent report, if the Heat does end up acquiring Lillard, Wood could view Miami as an appealing landing spot.
The Los Angeles Lakers still might be the favorites to sign Christian Wood
Even though the Heat (and Chicago Bulls) have been linked to Wood recently, the Los Angeles Lakers might be the team that makes the most sense for him. Especially if he’s going to sign a one-year prove-it deal.
That said, there’s no question that Wood would be an interesting addition for the Heat should they gut their depth in an attempt to land Lillard. If – and when – this trade finally happens, Miami is going to have to work hard to find a working supporting cast.
Wood could very well be part of that post-Lillard trade plan.
Next. NBA Trade Rumors: 3 Fair offers Blazers, Heat should agree on for Damian Lillard. dark
After a somewhat disappointing season with the Dallas Mavericks this past year, Wood has not garnered much interest in the open free-agency market. That is the biggest reason why Wood may have to settle for a minimum deal. And it seems like the Heat could emerge as a dark horse option.