Right now, the Miami Heat are in the midst of a second-round series with the New York Knicks. However, they’ll still need to key an eye on the NBA offseason, where they can make upgrades to the roster.
Prior to last season, Miami made the decision to sign Kyle Lowry in free agency. They saw the former champion as someone who could help pursue a title. That being said, it hasn’t worked out how they might have hoped.
During his time with the Heat, Lowry has struggled with injuries and hasn’t been much of a contributor on the court. With that in mind, Miami might be looking to offload him and try to upgrade in the backcourt. A former NBA executive recently told NBA Analysis Network that Fred VanVleet is someone the team would love to bring in.
“Kyle Lowry will be on his way out this offseason,” the executive said. “A name to watch to replace him would be Fred VanVleet. Miami has coveted him for quite some time.”
VanVleet currently has a player option for next season worth $22.8 million. If he declines, he’ll enter the market as an unrestricted free agent. This opens the door for Miami to possibly work out a sign-and-trade and send Lowry back to Toronto for one final run.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Fred VanVleet, Toronto Raptors, Kyle Lowry & Miami Heat Updates
At 29 years old, VanVleet is still in the prime of his career. This season, he averaged 19.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.8 steals. The former All-Star also shot 34.2 percent from beyond the arc on close to nine attempts per game.
Similar to Lowry, VanVleet brings championship and veteran experience to the Miami Heat. He is also on a similar timeline to Jimmy Butler as he approaches the age of 30.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Fred VanVleet, Toronto Raptors, Kyle Lowry & Miami Heat Updates
VanVleet can bring a similar type of element to Miami that they hoped to get from Lowry. He is a guard who can create offense for himself and others, defends well for his size, and is a threat with or without the ball. A move like this could certainly help the Heat get back to the top of the Eastern Conference standings moving forward.
Want the latest in NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here.
