Each off-season comes with a period of clarity over proceedings for all the franchises. While some teams bulk up for the championship chase, some press the restart button. And that’s what gives us the most delicious food on the menu, the trade rumors. Don’t we love a trade rumor? So here’s one for you involving Damian Lillard, linking him to his ever-fancied Miami.

With Jimmy Butler‘s fate sealed, leading to an imminent exit from the Heat, the Miami brash is notified of a possible target to be the face of the franchise. And yes, it’s Damian Lillard. Everyone heard enough of those Lillard to Heat trade speculations last season. So now, brace yourselves to see those again next offseason, as indicated by Zach Lowe.

In the latest episode of the Lowe Post podcast, the ESPN insider indicated a possibility that could lead Lillard to the Heat. After a thwarted deal between the Blazers and the Heat last season, the 2025 offseason could be the opportune time for Pat Riley to call Dame. If the Bucks fail next season, Lowe pondered whether it would create a window for Lillard to leave the franchise. “If things don’t go well in Milwaukee, why would the Heat not call again about Damian Lillard? Why would other teams that were interested not call again about Damian Lillard, depending on how he’s putting? He’s the one that would make the most sense,” Lowe said while discussing the after-effects of a potentially bad season for Milwaukee.

Dame’s discontent in the Cream City is no secret as he went on record to reveal his trouble adapting to the new environment. That affected his game on the hardboard as well, compounded by the fact he had to share the ball with Giannis Antetokounmpo. The “Freak Time” duo wasn’t exactly a hit, and Dame’s recent absence from the Greek’s wedding also raised questions about their current dynamic. So this season could be a win-or-bust one for the Bucks, as the Heat move makes sense for multiple reasons.

Damian Lillard and Miami Heat- a perfect match or recipe for disaster?

Jimmy Butler’s hesitation to sign an extension with the Miami Heat is the hottest drama out of Florida since the infamous “Florida Man” headlines. After Pat Riley dropped some not-so-subtle shade at Butler during the end-of-season press conference, the All-Star’s vibe with the franchise has been about as warm as an iced-out Heat jersey. Now, with rumors swirling about the Brooklyn Nets ready to slide into Butler’s DMs, Miami might be facing a Butler-less future. Cue Damian Lillard, the perfect fit for filling a Butler-sized hole in the Heat’s lineup.

Let’s talk about Terry Rozier, Miami’s current starting point guard. He’s heading into his final contractual year, making him prime bait for a Lillard trade. Rozier for Lillard is like a no-brainer swap, but wait—there’s more! Enter Tyler Herro, Miami’s most eligible bachelor on the trade block, who’s been more available than a free donut at a police station. Herro has had his share of injuries, and it seems Riley’s patience with him is wearing thinner than Herro’s ankles. If the kid gets hurt again, don’t be surprised if he’s packed up and shipped out faster than you can say “load management.”

And let’s not forget, bringing in Lillard would have Bam Adebayo smiling wider than a kid who just found out it’s pizza day at school. Bam and Dame are practically besties, and after Miami’s cringe-worthy swing-and-a-miss at Lauri Markkanen this offseason, adding Lillard would make sure their championship dreams don’t go up in smoke faster than a South Beach vape shop.

If Butler decides to peace out, Jaime Jaquez Jr. could step into his spot, entering his third season with a chance to show what he’s got. Meanwhile, Miami’s three-point shooting is in desperate need of a miracle worker. Besides Herro and Duncan Robinson, who are more hot and cold than your ex’s texts, the Heat’s three-point game is as reliable as a paper straw in a milkshake. Lillard, on the other hand, could splash threes like he’s tossing rocks in a pond, making him just the hero Miami needs.

In a nutshell, if Butler bolts and Lillard joins the party, the Heat might just turn their fortunes around. Who knows? Maybe this time, Miami’s season will end with a bang instead of a whimper—or at least with fewer memes.