Kofi Inkoom
Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald reports that the Miami Heat currently has no active plans to pursue a trade for Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine.
He expresses doubt that this position will change, emphasizing the Heat’s proximity to the tax aprons as a significant factor influencing their decision.
The potential inclusion of Tyler Herro as a key piece in a LaVine trade raises concerns for Miami, given the substantial increase in future salary obligations, with Herro owed $120 million over the next four years compared to LaVine’s $178 million.
Jackson notes that Herro, being five years younger than LaVine and still improving as a scorer, is a valuable asset the Heat is reluctant to part with in a deal for the Bulls guard.
While using Kyle Lowry’s expiring contract and other assets in a trade for LaVine is an alternative, it presents higher tax penalties and financial constraints in future seasons.
Additionally, the overlapping skill sets of LaVine and Herro add complexity to the potential deal. In essence, Jackson suggests that the Heat does not perceive LaVine as a player worth surrendering key trade assets and sacrificing future flexibility for.
On the flip side, the Bulls’ reported high asking price for the two-time All-Star creates a disparity in their valuation, making an agreement between the two teams unlikely.
Jackson also raises the possibility of the Heat having interest in Chicago guard Alex Caruso if he becomes available. However, he casts uncertainty on whether the team would be willing to part with a first-round pick for the defensive stalwart.
This raises doubts about Miami’s position as the highest bidder for Caruso, who is expected to attract widespread interest in the market.