KEY POINTS

  • The Miami Heat may make a move for Lonzo Ball
  • Ball could succeed Goran Dragic as part of the Heat
  • Ball could be the playmaker needed to push Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo

The Miami Heat are not exactly sizzling right now compared to last NBA season.

It has become puzzling for most although it cannot be denied that the Heat are still feeling the effects of their last NBA Finals run, not to mention teams have gotten stronger– especially in the East.

Regardless, all is not lost for the Heat. They are 13-17 in the Eastern Conference and are within striking distance.

With the NBA trade deadline fast approaching, Miami could be one of the teams exploring a deal with other teams.

So far, the names of DeMarcus Cousins and PJ Tucker have been mentioned. But one department that may need addressing is the backcourt.

Head coach Erik Spoelstra needs a good playmaker, someone who can quarterback. One player comes to mind--Lonzo Ball of the New Orleans Pelicans.

Ball has been having a superb season with the Pelicans thus far, surprisingly with better scoring. He is averaging 14.3 points, 5 assists, and 4.2 rebounds in 31.1 minutes of action with New Orleans this season.

According to Miami Heat insider Greg Sylvander, someone from the Heat front office is interested in pursuing the second overall pick of the 2017 NBA Draft.

Though he is more touted as a scorer, his passing is likely the reason why Miami is interested.

It makes sense to have a good playmaker in the mix to aid Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo look better.

Aside from that, Miami has lots of good shooters surrounding the duo, and all that may be needed is a good facilitator.

Lonzo Ball #2 of the New Orleans Pelicans looks to pass against Cameron Payne #15 of the Phoenix Suns
Lonzo Ball #2 of the New Orleans Pelicans looks to pass against Cameron Payne #15 of the Phoenix Suns Getty Images | Christian Petersen

Ball could be the successor to Goran Dragic who is likely good for a year or two. Though Tyler Herro and Kendrick Nunn have been orchestrating plays, the Heat could see better playmaking if they take in the 23-year-old.

Also, it cannot be discounted that either or both could be dealt off if a good player comes along.

Trading Herro and Nunn is a long shot although anything is possible. A pursuit of Ball may be nothing but exploratory for now.

Things could change before the NBA trade deadline. Miami has been rumored to be active by that time, so a Ball acquisition may surprisingly happen.

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