NBA Trades: 3 Reasons why Miami Heat should not trade for Russell Westbrook

#2 Asset management

Coach Erik Spoelstra needs to be wary of the future

Under the leadership of Pat Riley and head coach Erik Spoelstra, Miami has done a good job of managing young talent and then adding to their core with shrewd free agent signings.

When they won a title in 2006, it was acquiring Shaquille O’Neal at the tail end of his prime paired with a then-emerging Wade. In 2010, it was more to do with already having Dwyane Wade with Chris Bosh and LeBron James wanting to play with their friend that led Miami to four consecutive NBA Finals, winning two of them in the process.

However, at the moment, Miami has a shortage of assets and players to move. Due to the deal that brought them point guard Goran Dragic from the Phoenix Suns, the Heat lost a 2021 first-round pick. They also gave up their 2020 first-rounder and emerging star Josh Richardson to acquire Jimmy Butler in a sign and trade involving 4 teams.

A second trade this summer might mean parting ways with James Johnson (2 years left) and Goran Dragic (1 year left) totaling $34.5 million for 3 years at 38.5 million per year in Westbrook. It would also likely mean a pick or two going OKC’s way.

If Miami also parted with a 2022 and 2024 first-rounder in any deal for Westbrook, It means the Heat will have no first-round selection for three straight years 2020-2022. Their cupboards will be bare and no draft prospects to restock the roster.