Why The Miami Heat Do The Deal 

By contrast, the Heat would have to take more than one step to tank their season. Realistically, it isn’t an option. 

Again, the Heat are in win-now mode. That means identifying the shortcomings on their roster and improving on them. If that’s the goal, Kuzma could be a perfect target. 

After all, the Heat still haven’t filled the void left by P.J. Tucker this summer. Kuzma could be a perfect substitute. He’s not quite as capable of a defender as Tucker, but he’s still solid on that end of the floor. On the other hand, he’s an upgrade in terms of point production. 

Unlike Tucker, Kuzma can create his own shot. Moreover, as a younger player and vastly superior athlete, he’s an asset in transition as well. All told, the Heat are adding a quality starter at a position of need here. For a win-now team, that’s worth the cost of a first-round pick. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards & Miami Heat Updates

In other words, the Heat are too close to the top of the league to worry about falling to its middle.