If the Damian Lillard dream falls through for the Miami Heat, they’re going to need a strong plan b.
Now that it’s been more than a month since Damian Lillard demanded a trade to the Miami Heat, and that there’s been roughly zero traction on a potential deal, there’s a real chance that this idea acquisition never comes to fruition. Even though many believe it will still eventually happen, it’s far from a certainty. Because of that, it’s important that the Heat have a fallback option. And one that doesn’t include running it back.
If Miami does end up running back the same roster from last season, after losing Gabe Vincent and Max Strus (to starters from their NBA Finals team), this offseason will undoubtedly be a huge disappointment. Missing out on Bradley Beal and then Lillard (after he demanded a trade to you) would only add insult to injury. But that’s the gamble that the Heat has embraced with the possibility of landing Lillard.
The Miami Heat’s backup plan almost has to involve trading for another star
If there is a backup plan for the Heat, it has to be pretty big. Perhaps almost as big as trading for Lillard in the first place. In the event that the Lillard trade idea falls through, for whatever reason, we explore some potential backup options for Miami.
Let’s dive into seven “star-level” trade targets the Heat can pivot to before the start of the season if the Lillard trade falls through.