With the NBA Trade Deadline right around the corner, all eyes are on teams that haven’t made any big moves for some time. The Miami Heat, often known for a lackluster offseason and disappointing trades, is already on the radar for some interesting moves this season.
Having said that, nothing can be set in stone before the February 5 deadline. And with the Heat looking to rebuild after Jimmy Butler III’s departure last year, other teams may already be looking into the current Heat roster.
Unexpected Heat Prospect Draws in Interest From Multiple NBA Teams as Trade Deadline Inches Closer
As mentioned, the NBA trade deadline is right around the corner. Multiple reports have suggested different trade routes, some more unexpected than others.
In a recent report, Hoopshype revealed that multiple NBA teams are probably interested in signing Miami Heat’s Kel’el Ware. Of course, this interest comes amid his reduced playing time and doubts from Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra.
“Kel’el Ware has drawn interest from around the league due to his double-double production at just 21 years old and the 7-footer’s ability to stretch the floor efficiently at 41.9 percent beyond the arc,” the report read.
“However, Miami and other teams around the league are monitoring the future of Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the Heat could try to hold onto Ware in a potentially bigger trade package for the Greek superstar.”
However, while new teams are looking to sign Ware, the Heat themselves might be holding back for a better, more enticing offer. This includes Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
If the Heat have Ware to offer up in their trade package, a trade (possibly multi-team) could easily land Antetokounmpo. Of course, there’s no confirmation that the Greek Freak is currently looking for a trade, but rumors point to a possible trade as the Bucks fail to win during the playoffs.
Ware, on his end, is averaging 11.7 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 0.5 assists while shooting 53.5% from the field and 41.7% from the three-point line. He is currently signed to a four-year, $20,466,072 contract with Miami.
Heat HC Erik Spoelstra Speaks About Ware’s On-Court Struggles
During the Heat’s 119-114 loss against the Boston Celtics, Ware was on the floor for only nine minutes. He scored three points and five rebounds during that outing. Against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Ware played for 16 minutes and scored seven points and nine rebounds.
Spoelstra, speaking to the media postgame, shared his candid view on the 21-year-old.
“With Kel’el I know thats a lightning rod topic. He needs to get back where he was 7/8 weeks ago where I felt he was stacking good days. He’s stacking days in the wrong direction now,” Spoelstra said.
Currently ranked eighth in the Eastern Conference, the Heat will play the Golden State Warriors next on Monday, January 19.
