The Miami Heat would be open to offering some of its young players to James Harden.
According Miami HeraldBarry Jackson, from Miami, was also prepared to participate in a first-round choice on a possible deal for Harden.
“According to an NBA source in regular contact with the team, Heat was open to offering some of its young players – potentially combined with a first round of 2025 if OKC unlocks the 2023 choice,” wrote Jackson. “Andre Iguodala and Kelly Olynyk would be needed to facilitate trade from the point of view of the limit, because of trade restrictions involving five other Heat veterans.”
While it appears that Harden to Miami’s noise has subsided for the time being, it is interesting to speculate which of the young Heat players would be involved in the business.
Tyler Herro seems to make the most sense, as he is the most established of the Miami youth group. Bam Adebayo is probably off the table in any deal after the Heat hired him for a massive extension.
So far this season, Miami is 3-3. After reaching the NBA finals last season, the Heat had to deal with a short off-season and injury from Jimmy Butler this season.
The Heat may still seek a replacement from Harden, but they also seem to be happy with their current core.
Although Harden is one of the NBA’s best scorers, Miami would have to give up a significant part of its future to get it.