At the moment, the Miami Heat remain linked to Damian Lillard in NBA trade rumors, but it remains to be seen if there’s a viable pathway to a deal with the Portland Trail Blazers to make it happen. Whether Lillard heads to South Beach or not, improving the roster remains important.
The Heat lost Max Strus and Gabe Vincent in free agency after making it to the NBA Finals. It would be beneficial to acquire a realistic trade target that can fill some of the combo guard void that was created after the team’s deep playoff run.
If the Heat prove willing to pursue a cheaper trade target, an intriguing option could be Norman Powell of the Los Angeles Clippers. What could a trade look like?
The Trade Proposal
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: G/F Norman Powell, 2028 First-Round Pick (Swap – MIA)
Miami Heat Receive: G/F Duncan Robinson
James Harden wants to join the Los Angeles Clippers. Do the Clippers want to add Harden? That’s uncertain. There would be pros and cons to acquiring him this summer.
Sure, Harden is one of the best playmakers in the NBA. If the Clippers wanted to make another win-now push this season, he’d be a sensible addition. On the other hand, Harden is a complicated player. His ball dominance can alienate teammates. There are reasons to avoid him, too.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Norman Powell, Los Angeles Clippers & Miami Heat Updates
Meanwhile, the Clippers may not even want to make that push. It’s difficult to chart a course for this team. The Clippers could continue trying to contend, or they could justify blowing an underperforming roster up. Does this deal make sense either way?
Why The Los Angeles Clippers Do The Deal
We’re not sure what the Clippers will do this summer. With that said, this deal could be justified either way. Let’s suppose the Clippers are thinking of retooling. This makes sense.
They’re strengthening an asset by receiving a pick swap. If they wanted to, they could trade it. Alternatively, if the Clippers are undergoing a total rebuild, improving their draft capital makes total sense.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Norman Powell, Los Angeles Clippers & Miami Heat Updates
With that said, acquiring Robinson isn’t a death sentence for their current core. He’s one of the best movement shooters in the NBA, even if he can be a defensive liability. He’s not as dynamic offensively as Powell – that’s why the Clippers are landing a pick swap. Should the Heat give that pickup?
Why The Miami Heat Do The Deal
Well, let’s talk about Powell. What type of player is he? What are his strengths and weaknesses? Well, Powell is a scorer first and foremost. This is a player who can create his own shot.
Adding him would give Miami’s offense a boost. Meanwhile, Powell is also a capable defender. That’s something the Heat have always valued.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Norman Powell, Los Angeles Clippers & Miami Heat Updates
Does he have any weaknesses? Sure. Powell isn’t an exceptional playmaker. Luckily, the Heat can handle that. Between Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler, they get ample playmaking from their forecourt. With that in mind, Powell would be a great addition to this team – even if he’s no Damian Lillard.
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