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The Miami Heat surprised just about everyone during the 2020 NBA Playoffs, as they went on an impressive run of games that ended in a Finals defeat against the LA Lakers. Since the end of the Finals, NBA trade rumors have swirled around the franchise, with the million-dollar question being, 'who will the Heat bring in ahead of next season?'
While only time will give us the answer, here are the top five players linked with the Miami Heat this off-season.
5 Players linked with the Miami Heat who can help them go all the way in the 2020-21 season
In this list, we will be looking at all the NBA trade rumors surrounding the franchise and select five players that are most likely to make a serious impact on the team, and help them win the 2020-2021 NBA Championship.
With that in mind, let's get started.
#5 Montrezl Harrell
Reigning 6th man of the year, Montrezl Harrell has reportedly been at odds with the LA Clippers as dynamic center enters free agency this off-season. The 26-year-old's situation has prompted interest from several franchises, with the Miami Heat reportedly one of them.
Harrell offers the best scoring punch off the bench in the NBA and is switchable on the defensive end, thanks to his athleticism. While he doesn't have much of an outside game, Montrezl Harrell is an absolute force in the pain on the offensive end. He is a great lob-threat and has a soft touch around the rim.
Given the defensive handicap at certain positions, the franchise could do with a bench boost to compliment their gifted starters. A two-way player such as Harrell could enhance the team's defense and give them a consistent scoring option in the paint.
#4 Jerami Grant
Like the Miami Heat, the Denver Nuggets performed incredibly well during the 2020 NBA Playoffs. Their run through the Western Conference saw Jerami Grant emerge as an unsung hero for the team.
The 26-year-old is a legitimate '3 and D' player and fits into the Miami Heat's system. Grant's proficiency as a team defender would take a massive load off the likes of Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. Meanwhile, his well-rounded offense could take the Heat over the hump.
#3 Jrue Holiday
Jrue Holiday has been a staple in NBA trade rumors since Shams Charania's recent report, which revealed the New Orleans Pelicans are open to talks with other teams about the 30-year-old. The Miami Heat are reportedly one of the numerous parties interested.
Holiday is one of the best defensive guards in the NBA and can defend positions one through five, something that the Miami Heat will be desperate to obtain. Additionally, his ability to switch between the role of facilitator and high volume scorer could take the Miami Heat's offense to new heights.
Given Jrue Holiday's remarkable talent, it is no surprise that the Pelicans star has fielded interest from several contenders. With the Heat aiming go one step further next year, they must prioritize the acquisition of Jrue this off-season.
#2 Victor Oladipo
Despite the Indiana Pacers stalling on negotiations, NBA trade rumors have continued to link star Victor Oladipo to a multitude of franchises, and the Miami Heat are reportedly at the front of the line.
While the 28-year-old has only just returned from injury, he has been recovering at a rapid rate and has experts believing he could yet return to All-Star form. If the Miami Heat choose to believe in him, not only will they have an almost unstoppable force on offense, but also an irritant on the defensive end of the floor.
Given how dominant Victor Oladipo can be, if this risk were to pan out, the Miami Heat would be undeniable favorites to win it all during the 2020-21 season.
#1 Giannis Antetokounmpo
Coming out on top of our list, we have the two-time reigning MVP and Defensive player of the year, Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The 25-year-old would instantly raise the Miami Heat from contenders to championship favorites. He is an absolute terror on defense, denying the opposition a bucket almost every time he is in position, while he is one of the most dominant offensive forces in the entire league.
With the Miami Heat saving up cap-space in order to acquire the Greek Freak, this is a blockbuster move that could realistically happen in the near future.
