The NBA season has moved on to the next stage after the eventful conclusion of the trade deadline day. Many teams in the league took necessary and even extreme steps to bolster their roster for the future. The Western Conference was especially active with their trades. as the teams made sure to have the edge amidst intense competition. The Los Angeles Lakers traded Patrick Beverley to the Orlando Magic and?Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz. Also, rumors predicted that Westbrook could enter a buyout in Utah and eventually end up with other teams in the league, like the Miami Heat. However, recent reports suggest that the Heat could take a significant decision on the Westbrook deal, due to certain grave developments.
The Miami Heat could be reportedly out of the race to acquire Westbrook’s services for unknown, but concerning reasons. The sources have revealed that the Heat front-office was looking closely at Westbrook, but their due diligence might make them rethink their priorities.
Miami Heat could back out of Russell Westbrook buyout trade due to concerning factors
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The Miami Heat were unable to use the trade deadline to their advantage and ended up looking for options after. The East Coast side put their trusted sources to gather more information about Russell Westbrook. However, the search seemed to turn out to be disappointing for the Miami side, which might lead to losing interests in the 34-year-old point guard.
According to Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson, their reconnaissance has turned out negative results and it is still unclear as to what the reasons are. “Feedback they’ve received has created concerns. Can’t go beyond that at this point,” reported Jackson. The upcoming days might produce some information on the big “concerns”. However, if the deal moves forward, there is a lot of speculation that the Heat would not give Westbrook a starting spot.
Report: Miami Heat have received concerning feedback about Russell Westbrook https://t.co/cjzGb8SQIl
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 16, 2023
It is very well known that the nine-time All-Star’s playing style wasn’t suited to the Lakers. It was a primary reason that he was traded to the Jazz. Nevertheless, the 2017 MVP hasn’t played a single minute for the Salt Lake City team and the Heat would be a good option for both parties.
ALSO READ: REPORTS: Russell Westbrook to Play With 2 Superstars on Next Team
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As the Westbrook deal might be on the ropes, the Miami side hasn’t stopped looking into other players for their squad. The Heat is desperate to support their stars, Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, leading them to look for bench players in the league.
The Heat’s new targets after the uncertainty regarding the Westbrook deal
New reports by Ira Winderman suggest that Serge Ibaka and Kevin Love are being closely watched by the Miami side. It is evident that Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler need a lot of help for the team to make progress. Understandably, these players can provide major contributions to the team. Considering their lack of playing time in their respective teams, this could be a good option for both parties. They would love to have some playing time and the Heat are the perfect place for them to thrive.?
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