One NBA writer is proposing that the Miami Heat trade for Dallas Mavericks point guard Kyrie Irving this summer. Our own James Piercey of NBA Analysis Network proposed that the Heat trade Kyle Lowry, Caleb Martin, and two future draft picks to the Mavericks for Irving, who becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer.
“Should the Heat really put their eggs in this basket? Sure. We can harp on Irving’s negatives all we like. Here’s the reality: this is one of the very best players in the NBA,” Piercey wrote. “Of course, there’s a risk that would be involved for any team signing up for the Irving experience. Perhaps the Heat’s renowned culture will influence him.
“Still, this is mostly about a talent upgrade for Miami. He is one of the NBA’s elite isolation scorers and just general half-court offensive threats imaginable. By adding Irving, they should be much better than an eighth seed heading into next year’s playoffs. He would be the ultimate ceiling raiser alongside Butler.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks & Miami Heat Updates
Irving has a close relationship with Heat superstar small forward Jimmy Butler. Lowry is getting older and Irving is clearly an upgrade over him. If Miami acquires Kyrie, Gabe Vincent can move to the bench and torch reserve players instead of having to go up against starters every night.
An eight-time All-Star and one-time NBA champion, Irving averaged 27.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 5.5 assists this season for the Brooklyn Nets and Mavericks while shooting 49.4% from the field, 37.9% from beyond the arc and 90.5% from the free-throw line.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks & Miami Heat Updates
The Duke product has been linked to the Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, and Phoenix Suns if he decides not to re-sign with the Mavericks. Irving has career averages of 23.4 points, 3.9 rebounds and 5.7 assists with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, Nets, and Mavericks.
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