The Miami Heat should be one of the most exciting teams to watch this summer. Despite remaining competitive and in postseason contention after moving Jimmy Butler, the organization will most likely be aggressive in acquiring quality to the squad. Aside from trading Tyler Herro or Bam Adebayo, the only way to accomplish this will be through free agency. However, this will also present challenges. The Heat currently do not expect to have enough salary room to go big-game hunting, and they may be seen as a less appealing destination for free agents when Butler departs.
This might push the Heat to be creative and take a chance on a guy with some baggage. Bradley Beal, a Phoenix Suns guard, fits the requirements and has already been linked to the franchise. According to Suns insider John Gambadoro, the Heat, Nuggets, Spurs, and Warriors are among the teams that could be interested in Beal if Phoenix buys out his contract this summer. Beal has emerged as one of the NBA’s most divisive players in recent years, owing to his erratic play and large salary.
Despite his flaws, Beal can still score points and would inject some much-needed energy into a Heat club that is heavily reliant on Herro and Abedayo’s shot creation. The former All-Star’s reputation would also benefit significantly if he could play outside of the constraints of his maximum contract.
With three years and approximately $160 million left on his contract, it remains to be seen whether the Suns will eat the remaining terms of his contract only to get him off the team. If they do, the Heat may attempt to buy low on the famous name, hoping that a change of scenery and time in their “culture” will help recover his stock.
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