(Image Source: Getty Images)
[Saba Sports News] ESPN’s Brian Windhorst discussed the Miami Heat’s potential trade interests on the latest “The Hoop Collective” podcast episode. He noted that the Heat are among the teams keen on trading with the Cleveland Cavaliers for All-Star Donovan Mitchell. The New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets were also mentioned as interested parties.
The Knicks and Nets are anticipated suitors for Mitchell, who hails from the Bronx. However, Miami’s involvement is particularly intriguing. Despite missing out on major trade targets like Bradley Beal and Damian Lillard, who haven’t fully met expectations with their new teams—especially Beal, sidelined for most of the season due to injuries—the Heat retained their prime trade assets. This positions them to pursue a younger, more promising player like Mitchell, whom they had shown interest in before his move to Cleveland.
Players like Tyler Herro, Kyle Lowry, and Duncan Robinson could be potential salary-match options in a trade. Additionally, rising talents Caleb Martin and rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. could add value to the Heat’s offer.
Mitchell, 27, has a contract that allows for free agency as early as 2025. His current deal, averaging around $32.6 million annually, is considered reasonable for a player of his caliber. With the Cavs’ modest 15-12 record and Mitchell’s extension seeming unlikely, a trade could be on the horizon. There’s also speculation about another potential destination for Mitchell on the opposite coast.