Why The Miami Heat Do The Deal
In all actuality, it’s hard to say exactly what the Heat would do with Westbrook.
In a sense, this feels like a good match. We can question a lot of things about Russell Westbrook, but we can’t question his tenacity, heart, or work ethic. Those happen to be qualities the Heat have traditionally valued as an organization.
On the other hand, the basketball fit is poor. In particular, it’s hard to imagine how Westbrook would survive alongside non-shooting big man Bam Adebayo. Perhaps the Heat could finally convince Westbrook to accept a sixth-man role. If they can’t, it might be in everyone’s best interest to have him sit the year out.
Either way, this deal isn’t really about Westbrook for Miami. It’s about his expiring contract. This trade gives them the means to get off of Duncan Robinson’s long-term deal.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Duncan Robinson, Miami Heat & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Moreover, even Lowry’s deal is beginning to age poorly, and it has an extra year on it compared to Westbrook’s. This deal affords the Heat some much-needed financial flexibility quickly.
Finally, the first-round pick doesn’t hurt either. It’s protected since the Lakers are taking back two questionable contracts for an expiring one. Is that really something they ought to do?
