It’s week two of the new season, and James Harden trade rumors continue to be a huge story for the NBA.
The Miami Heat, who are coming off an appearance in the Finals, have been seen as the biggest contenders to acquire the superstar guard. With plenty of assets, a lot of motive, and a GM who has a history of being persuasive, the Heat are in as good a position as any team can be.
Still, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the Heat have yet to meet Houston’s asking price.
“I think the Miami Heat could make a trade for [Harden],” Windhorst said. “They (the Rockets) probably want Herro and Robinson. Robinson’s an awfully valuable player. … But I don’t see if you watch how the Heat play, the Heat play high ball movement, high player movement offense. It would be such a dramatic change of style for the Heat.”
Am told Rockets want significantly more than that https://t.co/vuJXSVJ09Y
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) December 31, 2020
It’s easy to understand why the Rockets are looking for such a large haul in return for James. He has been the face of their franchise for eight years, leading them to the playoffs every single time. Giving up their franchise player, and one of the best scorers in basketball history, shouldn’t come cheap.
Of course, for Miami, it’s easy to see why they’d be reluctant to give up such a large part of their roster for a 31-year old player with a history of locker room problems. Robinson and Herro are essential to what they are and what they’ve been able to achieve — to give up more than that would be a tall ask.
Needless to say, Pat Riley and the front-office over in South Beach have a big decision to make.
