Led by Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and Kendrick Nunn, the Miami Heta have been the surprise team of the season. Projected to be a bottom-seeded playoff contender, they have surpassed expectations this season, boasting a 27-12 record and a 3rd place standing in the Eastern Conference.
Yet, as good as they are, there are questions about this team’s potential in the playoffs. Is their balanced effort really enough to overcome the Bucks, Celtics, or Sixers?
Only time will provide the answer, but a pre-deadline trade could give them an edge in the battles to come in April, May, and June. Among a list of targets, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz named Marcus Morris as a realistic get for them ahead of February’s trade deadline, and one who would seemingly be a perfect fit.
While they won’t go for one of the big fish in Kevin Love or Chris Paul, the Miami Heat won’t be silent at the deadline.
Marcus Morris would be a perfect fit at power forward, given his toughness, defensive versatility and playoff experience.
His expiring $15 million deal means Miami won’t have to worry about his contract taking up cap space in the summer of 2021, when players such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George could hit free agency.
In what has been an abysmal season for the Knicks, Morris has been one of the few bright spots. Averaging 19 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists, the 30-year-old forward has become a go-to scorer for the team.
In light of his performance, the Knicks might be better off trading him for a future asset — and the Heat could be the ones to answer the call.
A pick and role-player could be enough to get the conversation started, and it would help both teams take steps towards their respective goals. Either way, you can expect both teams to be active ahead of February’s trade deadline.
