Heat willing to trade one of their best players?

Despite their tremendous success this season, the Miami Heat may not be willing to turn one of their top players into a made man.

Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer reported Friday that league insiders believe that the Heat could potentially trade away guard phenom Tyler Herro if they see an opportunity to land another superstar player. Fischer adds that Herro is eligible for a lucrative contract extension this summer and that some rival executives and agents believe such an extension could approach Herro’s max of five years and $184 million.

The 22-year-old Herro has been a demolition man for Miami this season, slicing up defenses to the tune of 20.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game off the bench. Herro is also the clear frontrunner for Sixth Man of the Year and has been a key closer for the Eastern Conference-leading Heat.

But Herro’s rapid progression may possibly be pricing him out of Miami’s long-term range. While Herro will still be on his rookie deal through next season, the Heat have significant money invested in Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo through 2026. Duncan Robinson is also under contract through at least 2025, and Kyle Lowry is under contract through 2024. Furthermore, Fischer notes the presence of both Victor Oladipo and Caleb Martin adding depth to Miami’s guard situation, both of whom reportedly have interest in remaining with the team.

Granted, the Heat have previously indicated unwillingness to trade Herro, and one school of thought suggests that he could be the team’s long-term young pillar, along with the 24-year-old Adebayo. But the team did have some reported frustrations with Herro less than a year ago. Thus, Miami’s postseason performance with Herro this season will likely go a long way towards determining his ultimate future with them.

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